Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience? Dee's Cottage Meat Loaf isn't just another recipe—it's a nostalgic journey back to home-cooked comfort that promises to tantalize your senses and warm your soul. Imagine cutting into a perfectly baked, juicy meatloaf with a golden-brown exterior that locks in incredible flavor and tenderness. This classic American dish is about to become your new family favorite, guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, eggs, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy wooden spoon to mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of all components.
- Mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so combine just until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it down to create an even surface. Shape the meat into a uniform loaf shape, leaving a slight gap around the edges to allow fat to drain.
- Optional: Spread an additional thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more moist and easier to slice.
- Carefully drain any excess fat from the pan, then slice the meatloaf into 1-inch thick servings. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Always use fresh ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20 blend) for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Don't overmix the ingredients—gentle mixing prevents a tough, dense texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to help it retain its juices and make slicing easier.
- For extra flavor, experiment with adding herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Leftover meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches the next day—store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
