Recipe For Meatloaf

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 02, 2025

19

Share

The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful, and Crowd-Pleasing

Are you ready to ditch the dry, bland meatloaf of your past and embrace a juicy, flavorful masterpiece? This recipe delivers on all fronts, promising a tender interior and a perfectly browned exterior that will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). This recipe is optimized for search engines, ensuring maximum visibility for those searching for the perfect meatloaf recipe.

Ingredients for a Spectacular Meatloaf:

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients to create an extraordinary dish. You likely already have many of these items in your pantry!

• 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended): The fat content is crucial for juiciness.
• 0.5 lbs Ground Pork (optional, but adds great flavor): This enhances the richness of the meatloaf.
• 1 large Onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Adds a pungent aromatic kick.
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned): Acts as a binder, helping the meatloaf hold its shape.
• 1/2 cup Milk or Chicken Broth: Moistens the mixture, contributing to a tender texture.
• 1 large Egg, lightly beaten: Another binder, adding structure and richness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: A classic herb pairing for meatloaf, providing an earthy aroma.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Adds another layer of herbaceous complexity.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
• Ketchup (for glazing): A classic meatloaf topping, adding sweetness and a glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions: A Meatloaf Masterclass

Follow these easy steps to achieve meatloaf perfection:

Step 1: Preparing the Meat Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly.
2. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), onion, and garlic. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
3. Add the breadcrumbs, milk (or broth), egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Don't overwork the meat!

Step 2: Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
3. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.

Step 3: Resting and Serving

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
2. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Meatloaf Success:

• Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in a tough meatloaf.
• Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Let it rest: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
• Experiment with flavors: Add your own favorite spices and herbs to customize your meatloaf.

This recipe provides a foundation for your meatloaf adventures. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create your own signature dish. Enjoy!