Name: Meatloaf recipe (extra delicious!)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (Note 1); 1 large onion (grated (brown, yellow)); 1 kg ground beef (preferably not lean); 2 eggs; 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1/4 cup tomato ketchup; 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, or 2 tsp dried parsley or basil); 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 beef bouillon cubes (crumbled or 2 tsp beef powder (Note 2)); 1 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup tomato ketchup; 2 tbsp cider vinegar; 1 tbsp brown sugar (lightly packed)

Introduction to the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a classic meatloaf. This dish is not just a combination of ground beef molded into a loaf shape; it’s a hearty meal that embodies warmth and nostalgia. That beautifully caramelized glaze on top? It’s a game changer.

Why Meatloaf is the Perfect Homemade Meal

Meatloaf is the epitome of a homemade meal — it's simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile. You can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to add some veggies? Go for it! Prefer chicken instead of beef? You can swap it in without a hitch.

Plus, with a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll find it surprisingly easy to include in your weekly meal rotation. It’s perfect for busy young professionals, providing the comfort of a home-cooked meal that can also feed a crowd — or leave you with delicious leftovers for the week. For more ideas on how to make your meals healthier, check out resources like Healthline.

Ready to dive into this ultimate meatloaf recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Meatloaf

Creating the ultimate meatloaf recipe starts with the right ingredients. For a moist and flavorful base, you’ll need:

Ground Beef: 2 pounds, preferably not lean for that juicy goodness.
Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, providing a light texture while soaking up flavor.
Eggs: 2, which bind the ingredients together perfectly.
Onion and Garlic: For a savory kick, use 1 large grated onion and 3 minced garlic cloves.
Worcestershire Sauce and Tomato Ketchup: Both add depth and sweetness, making every bite irresistible.

Optional Ingredients to Customize Your Meatloaf

Want to elevate your meatloaf? Consider adding:

Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the flavors.
Beef Bouillon or Stock: For extra richness, crumbled bouillon cubes are a game-changer.
Vegetables: Finely chopped carrots or bell peppers can sneak in some nutrition.
Turkey Bacon: Wrap your meatloaf for a smoky twist.

Feel free to mix and match these optional ingredients to suit your palate! For more tips on perfecting this classic dish, check out The Spruce Eats for inspiration.

Preparing the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

Creating the perfect meatloaf is an art that combines simplicity with flavor. Follow these steps to make a meatloaf recipe that is not only tasty but also memorable!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into this culinary adventure, ensure you have everything you need. Here’s a handy list of ingredients for our meatloaf:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs – These will give the meatloaf a soft texture.
1 large onion, grated – For a subtle onion flavor without the sautéing.
1 kg / 2 lb ground beef – Opt for a not-too-lean variety to keep it juicy.
2 eggs – These bind everything together.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Because more flavor is always better!
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce – A key ingredient for depth of flavor.
¼ cup tomato ketchup – For moisture and sweetness.
¼ cup chopped parsley (optional) – Fresh herbs brighten the dish.
Seasonings: thyme, beef bouillon cubes, and black pepper.

Getting these ingredients ready beforehand makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Plus, the smell of them mixing will get your family or housemates excited for dinner!

Create the Meat Mixture

Now, let's put everything together! In a large bowl, start by mixing the panko breadcrumbs with the grated onion—not only will this soften the breadcrumbs as they absorb the moisture, but it also makes for easier handling.

Next, add in the ground beef, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, parsley, thyme, crumbled bouillon cubes, and black pepper. Mix everything well using your hands—don’t be afraid to dive in, as this helps integrate the flavors. This step is crucial for that extra delicious meatloaf recipe we’re striving for!

Shape the Meatloaf

Once everything is mixed well, transfer the mixture onto a clean surface and shape it into a loaf. It’s important to pinch the mixture together tightly to prevent cracks from forming during baking. If you're using a loaf pan, simply transfer the formed loaf there, smoothing out any creases.

Prepare the Glaze

A delicious meatloaf recipe isn’t complete without a sweet and tangy glaze. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup ketchup, cider vinegar, and brown sugar to create a glossy finish. Brush half of this glaze over your meatloaf before it hits the oven.

Bake the Meatloaf to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F while you prepare your meatloaf. Bake the meatloaf for about 45 minutes, and then take it out to add the remaining glaze. This will caramelize beautifully. If there’s excess fat, carefully scoop it off. Return it to the oven for another 30 minutes, and voilà—let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing.

The results? A moist, flavorful meatloaf that makes the perfect main dish for any family dinner. Serve it up with creamy mashed potatoes and veggies for a hearty meal!

For more delicious recipes, check out Serious Eats or Food Network for inspiration and tips. Enjoy your cooking!

Variations on the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

Veggie-Packed Meatloaf

For a nourishing twist, consider adding finely grated or diced vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers to your meatloaf recipe. These not only boost the nutritional profile but also introduce vibrant flavors that uplift each bite. Simply mix them in with your meat and breadcrumbs, and watch your familiar dish transform into a veggie-packed delight.

Spicy Sriracha Meatloaf

If you crave a bit of heat, spice up your meatloaf recipe with Sriracha! Incorporate a few tablespoons into your meat mixture for a zesty kick that’s sure to impress. Drizzling some extra Sriracha on top of the glaze gives each slice a burst of flavor. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes to balance that heat and take your dinner to the next level.

For more inspiring variations and tips, check out Serious Eats or Bon Appétit!

Cooking Tips and Notes for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

Secret for Moist and Flavorful Meatloaf

To achieve the most delicious meatloaf, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They hold more moisture, giving you a tender loaf. Incorporating grated onion also enhances flavor while maintaining juiciness. Remember, don't skip the glaze! It adds a caramelized finish that elevates the dish. Consider a mix of turkey bacon in the meat mixture for an added smoky flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid using lean ground beef; it can lead to a dry result. Also, refrain from overmixing—you want to combine ingredients just enough to hold together. Finally, let your meatloaf rest before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and helps prevent crumbling. For a deeper dive into meatloaf basics, check out this guide on USDA guidelines for safe meat handling.

Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

Classic Sides to Pair with Meatloaf

To elevate your meatloaf recipe experience, consider classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. These traditional accompaniments complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf beautifully. You can also whip up some roasted Brussels sprouts for a delightful crunch!

Unique Serving Ideas

For something different, slice the meatloaf into thick portions and serve it on a bed of creamy polenta, topped with a zesty tomato sauce. Or, make sliders using small rolls for a fun, interactive meal—perfect for gatherings! Pair with a side of sweet potato fries or a tangy coleslaw for added texture.

Explore more innovative ideas here to truly impress your guests!

Time Breakdown for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

Preparation Time
To get started, you’ll need just 15 minutes to gather ingredients and prepare your meatloaf. This quick prep time makes it an excellent option for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals.

Cooking Time
Bake your delicious meatloaf for a total of 1 hour and 15 minutes. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while ensuring a moist and tender texture.

Total Time
Altogether, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes both preparation and cooking, giving you plenty of time to set the table and perhaps whip up a side dish or two!

Exploring recipes like this meatloaf recipe can really enhance your culinary skills, and the end result is so satisfying. If you're looking for quick cooking tips, check out Serious Eats—they have a wealth of information that could elevate your kitchen game!

Nutritional Facts for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

When diving into this delicious meatloaf recipe, it’s important to know what you're putting on your plate. Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional facts per serving to keep your meal balanced and satisfying.

Calories

404 calories per serving, making it a hearty option for dinner.

Protein

With 24g of protein, this meatloaf recipe helps to keep you full and fueled throughout your evening.

Sodium

On the sodium front, there are 607mg, so it’s a good idea to monitor your overall intake if you’re watching your salt consumption.

For more detailed nutrition insights and tips on healthy eating, consider exploring resources like Nutrition.gov or Eatright.org for guidance and inspiration!

FAQs about the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

How can I make my meatloaf less crumbly?

If you find your meatloaf is crumbling too much, a couple of tweaks can help. First, ensure you're using enough moisture in your mixture, like adding extra eggs or incorporating soaked breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are a great choice, as they help retain moisture and create a softer texture. Finally, avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a denser loaf.

Can I use lean meat for this recipe?

While you can use lean meat, it’s not ideal for meatloaf! The fat in meats like ground chuck enhances flavor and moisture, preventing a dry outcome. If you prefer a healthier option, mix lean meat with a bit of higher-fat content, like 80/20 ground beef or even Turkey Bacon for added richness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

To keep your meatloaf fresh, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, slice it and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven or microwave!

For more tips on meat storage, check out the USDA’s guidelines.

Conclusion on the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe

This meatloaf recipe is a true game changer for your dinner routine. With its amazing flavors, tender texture, and delicious glaze, it's a dish the whole family will love. Give it a try – you'll never look at meatloaf the same way again!

For more mouthwatering recipes, check out RecipeTin Eats!