Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary feast! The Winged Wench's Meat Loaf isn't just another recipe - it's a flavor-packed journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and become an instant family favorite. With a perfect blend of juicy ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a secret ketchup glaze, this meatloaf will have everyone at the table begging for seconds (and maybe even thirds)!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will help bind the meatloaf and add texture.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the bowl. The onion will provide moisture and flavor, while the garlic adds a nice aromatic touch.
- Crack 1 egg into the mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together as it cooks.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of ketchup. This will add sweetness and moisture to the meatloaf, enhancing its flavor.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be generous, as this will elevate the overall flavor of the meatloaf.
- Using your hands or a spoon, mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf form. Ensure that it is evenly distributed in the pan for even cooking.
- Optionally, spread a little extra ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and a nice glaze.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. The meatloaf should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more flavorful and easier to slice.
- After resting, slice the meatloaf into servings and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Winged Wench's Meat Loaf with your favorite sides!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough and dense.
- Let it Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Breadcrumb Magic: For extra moisture, try using fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried. They absorb more moisture and keep the meatloaf tender.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
- Glaze Options: While ketchup is classic, try mixing your glaze with some brown sugar or Dijon mustard for a more complex flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
