Moist Meatloaf Recipe: A Juicy & Flavorful Classic
Meatloaf, a comforting classic, often gets a bad rap for being dry and bland. But fear not! This recipe is designed to deliver a super moist and flavorful meatloaf that will have everyone coming back for seconds. We'll focus on techniques and ingredients that guarantee a juicy result, transforming this humble dish into a culinary masterpiece.
The Secret to a Moist Meatloaf: Ingredients & Technique
The key to achieving ultimate moisture lies in a combination of ingredients and preparation methods. Let's dive into the specifics:
Ingredient Spotlight:
- Ground Meat: A blend of ground beef (80/20 recommended) and ground pork provides the best flavor and moisture. Avoid using leaner ground meats as they tend to dry out during cooking.
- Liquid Gold: The addition of liquid is paramount. This recipe uses a combination of milk and ketchup, but you can experiment with beef broth or even finely diced vegetables for added flavor and moisture.
- Breadcrumbs: These are crucial for binding the meatloaf and adding texture. Use plain breadcrumbs for the best results. Avoid using highly seasoned breadcrumbs as they can overpower the flavors of the meat.
- Egg: An egg acts as a binder, holding everything together and adding richness.
- Onions & Garlic: These aromatic ingredients provide a savory base and enhance the overall flavor profile. Finely chopping them ensures even distribution throughout the meatloaf.
- Flavor Boosters: This recipe uses Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard for added depth of flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs – smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme all work well.
Preparation Techniques for Maximum Moisture:
- Gentle Handling: Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine all ingredients until just mixed.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking is a common culprit for dry meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Avoid overcooking by removing it from the oven slightly early and letting it rest for a few minutes.
- Glaze it Up: The ketchup glaze not only adds flavor but helps to keep the meatloaf moist by creating a protective barrier.
The Recipe: Moist Meatloaf Perfection
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 60-75 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 0.5 lbs ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
- Bake: Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C).
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Serve your moist meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also get creative with variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini into the meatloaf mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese please!: Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for extra flavor and richness.
This recipe is your ticket to a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that will impress even the most discerning meatloaf critic. Enjoy!
