The Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever: Juicy, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly
Are you tired of dry, bland meatloaf? Do you dream of a juicy, flavorful loaf that everyone in your family will rave about? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe will guide you step-by-step to create the best meatloaf recipe ever. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece.
Why This Meatloaf Recipe is the Best
This recipe isn't just another meatloaf recipe; it's a culmination of years of experimentation and tweaking to achieve the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and moisture. We've incorporated several key elements to ensure your meatloaf is exceptionally juicy, bursting with flavor, and incredibly tender. Say goodbye to dry, crumbly meatloaf and hello to a succulent, crowd-pleasing dish!
The Secret Ingredients for Ultimate Juiciness
The key to a truly outstanding meatloaf lies in its ingredients. This recipe utilizes several secret weapons to achieve maximum juiciness:
- Ground Beef and Pork Blend: The combination of ground beef and pork creates a richer flavor and a more tender texture compared to using just ground beef alone. The fat content in the pork helps keep the meatloaf moist.
- Crushed Crackers: Instead of breadcrumbs, we use crushed saltine crackers. These add a delightful subtle saltiness and superior moisture retention.
- Ketchup Glaze with a Twist: We're not just using ordinary ketchup; we're enhancing it with a touch of brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce for a deeper, more complex flavor. This glaze adds a beautiful shine and a burst of sweetness to complement the savory meatloaf.
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatic powerhouses infuse the meatloaf with a savory depth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
The Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever: Step-by-Step Instructions
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 0.5 lbs ground pork
- 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, crushed crackers, milk, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Shape the meatloaf: Gently transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake: Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Meatloaf Perfection
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the meatloaf is cooked thoroughly and safely.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps it retain its juices.
- Get creative with sides: Serve your delicious meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
A: Yes! Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I substitute for saltine crackers?
A: You can substitute with breadcrumbs, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
This best meatloaf recipe ever is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!
