To make a delicious meatloaf, you can follow this straightforward recipe, which combines ground beef with various flavorful ingredients. Here’s how to make it step by step, along with some tips to ensure it’s moist and tasty.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (suggested 80/20 for moisture and flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder or Italian seasoning
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. You can also add garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Mix the ingredients gently using your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Shape the Loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
- Optional Serving Suggestions: Serve meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic meal.
Tips for Best Results:
- Moisture is Key: Adding milk and not over-mixing your meat is crucial for keeping the meatloaf moist.
- Check Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking, aiming for 160°F at the center.
- Customization: Feel free to add different vegetables, herbs, or even cheese inside the meat mix for added flavor. You can also use ground turkey or pork as alternatives.
Additional Resources:
For more variations, techniques, and tips on making a beautiful meatloaf, consider checking out these detailed recipes:
