classic meatloaf

Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that is loved by many. It’s a versatile dish that can be made with various ingredients and flavors. In this recipe, we will show you how to make a delicious and flavorful classic meatloaf that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

For this classic meatloaf recipe, you will need:

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup milk

1/4 cup ketchup

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the meatloaf

Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape using your hands or the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Bake the meatloaf

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 5: Let it rest

Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations

While this classic meatloaf recipe is delicious as is, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

Add shredded cheese to the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.

Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a different texture.

Mix in some cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

Top the meatloaf with a glaze made of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for a sweet and tangy finish.

Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect classic meatloaf:

Use lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease.

Do not overmix the ingredients as it can result in a dense meatloaf.

Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Classic meatloaf is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. With this recipe, you can easily recreate the flavors of a traditional meatloaf that will please your family and friends. Get creative with variations and enjoy this hearty meal!

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

2. Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.