Table of Information
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Servings | 6-8 |
Introduction
Meatloaf is a traditional American comfort food known for its rich flavor and hearty texture. It’s typically made with ground meat mixed with breadcrumbs, seasoning, and sometimes a ketchup or barbecue sauce glaze.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef – 1½ pounds
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
- Milk – ½ cup
- Egg – 1, beaten
- Onion – 1, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon
- Ketchup – ½ cup (plus extra for topping)
- Mustard – 1 tablespoon
- Brown Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
4. Add Topping: Spread extra ketchup or your choice of glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake: Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Important Tips
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the meat can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Drain Fat: If using a loaf pan, drain off the fat halfway through cooking.
- Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Meatloaf Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky flavor.
- Vegetable-Enhanced: Add grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Store leftover meatloaf in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
How to Reheat Meatloaf
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes.
Pros and Cons of Meatloaf
- Pros:
- Flavorful and Comforting: A satisfying and hearty meal.
- Versatile: Can be adapted with different meats, seasonings, and toppings.
- Leftover-Friendly: Tastes great the next day and can be used in sandwiches.
- Cons:
- High in Fat and Calories: Depending on the ingredients used, it can be high in fat.
- Cooking Time: Requires a longer cooking time compared to other dishes.
- Texture: Getting the right texture can be challenging; it can become too dense or crumbly.