Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that the whole family will love? This Classic Meatloaf recipe is sure to be a hit! With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until well mixed.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish.
4. Bake for 1 hour or until fully cooked.
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
Popular questions:
1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?
– Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a substitute for ground beef.
2. Can I use oatmeal instead of breadcrumbs?
– Yes, you can use oatmeal as a substitution for breadcrumbs in this recipe.
3. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
– Yes, you can freeze leftover meatloaf slices for future meals.
5. Can I add extra vegetables to the meatloaf?
– Yes, you can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
6. Can I use different seasonings?
– Yes, feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
7. Can I top the meatloaf with bacon?
– Yes, you can add bacon strips on top of the meatloaf before baking for a savory twist.
8. Can I use a meatloaf pan instead of a baking dish?
– Yes, using a meatloaf pan will help shape the meatloaf and drain excess fat while cooking.
9. Can I glaze the meatloaf with barbecue sauce?
– Yes, you can brush barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf for added flavor.
10. Can I serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes?
– Yes, meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad.
Helpful tips:
1. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
2. Mix the ingredients gently to avoid a dense texture in the meatloaf.
3. Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the meatloaf.
4. Experiment with different seasonings such as Worcestershire sauce or Italian herbs.
5. Add a layer of cheese inside the meatloaf for a cheesy surprise.
6. Serve the meatloaf with a side of gravy for extra flavor.
7. Garnish the meatloaf with fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color.
8. Leftover meatloaf makes delicious sandwiches the next day.
9. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked.
10. Customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients like diced bell peppers or grated cheese.
Expert Secrets:
1. Use a mixture of ground beef and ground pork for a richer flavor.
2. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami depth of flavor.
3. Saute the onions before adding them to the meat mixture for a caramelized sweetness.
4. For a crispy crust, brush the meatloaf with a mixture of ketchup and brown sugar before baking.
5. Consider using panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture in the meatloaf.
6. Make mini meatloaf muffins by shaping the mixture into muffin tin compartments.
7. Serve the meatloaf with a side of tangy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
8. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
9. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a melty surprise inside the meatloaf.
10. For a festive touch, shape the meatloaf into a heart or football shape for special occasions.