Get ready to revolutionize your dinner table with the ultimate comfort food that promises to be even more delicious than the classic meatloaf you remember from childhood. This isn't just another meatloaf recipe - it's a culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds and asking, "How did you make this taste so incredible?" Prepare to become the new meatloaf champion of your household with this foolproof, flavor-packed recipe that combines traditional techniques with a touch of culinary magic!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly throughout.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground beef with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will help to bind the meatloaf and keep it moist.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced onion to the meat mixture. The onion will add flavor and moisture to the meatloaf.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of milk. This will help to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
- Crack 1 egg into the mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of ketchup. This will add sweetness and a hint of tanginess to your meatloaf.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Once all ingredients are combined, transfer the mixture to a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing down gently to remove any air pockets.
- Optional: Spread an additional layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for extra 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 the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
- After baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more flavorful.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve warm. Enjoy your classic meatloaf, better than mom’s!
Tips
- Meat Selection Matters: Choose ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) to ensure a juicy and flavorful meatloaf.
- Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
- Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: If possible, use freshly made breadcrumbs for a lighter texture and better moisture retention.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for food safety.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and delicious.
- Glaze Options: Experiment with different glazes like BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a homemade ketchup blend to add extra flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This meatloaf tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance for meal prep.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf mixture for up to 3 months, making it a convenient make-ahead meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
