Are you tired of bland, boring meat loaves that put you to sleep? Prepare to revolutionize your dinner game with this Easy Spicy Meat Loaf that promises to kick your comfort food up several notches! This isn't just another ordinary recipe - it's a flavor explosion that combines classic American home cooking with a spicy twist that'll have your family begging for seconds. In just over an hour, you'll create a hearty, satisfying meal that transforms simple ground beef into a culinary masterpiece that's both comforting and exciting.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a large fork until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it down to create an even surface. Shape the meat into a compact loaf, ensuring it fills the pan uniformly.
- Optional: For extra flavor, brush additional ketchup on top of the meat loaf to create a glossy, tangy glaze.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Once cooked, remove the meat loaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and easier to slice.
- Carefully drain any excess fat from the pan, then slice the meat loaf into 1-inch thick portions. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Always use fresh ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Don't overmix the meat mixture - this can make your meat loaf tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness - 160°F is the sweet spot for food safety and optimal texture.
- Let the meat loaf rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and delicious.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different spices or add a layer of bacon on top before baking.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the meat loaf for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Leftovers can be transformed into amazing sandwiches or crumbled into pasta sauces for quick meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
