If you're searching for a comforting dish that brings the whole family together, look no further than this "Family Favorite Meat Loaf." This classic American recipe is not only a nostalgic favorite, but it also boasts a deliciously moist texture and rich flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds! With just 15 minutes of prep time and a heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll be eager to dive into this hearty meal. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Onion
- Milk
- Ketchup
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will help bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist.
- Finely chop 1 medium onion and add it to the bowl. The onion will add flavor and moisture to the meatloaf.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup of milk. This mixture will help to bind the ingredients and add richness to the meatloaf.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture into the meat mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well combined, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Add 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the mixture. These seasonings will enhance the flavor of the meatloaf.
- Mix everything together until just combined. You can use your hands or a wooden spoon for this step.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape. If you prefer, you can also form the meatloaf into a free-form shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread an additional 1/4 cup of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and a nice glaze.
- Place the loaf pan or baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice.
- After resting, slice the meatloaf into 8 servings and serve warm. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf, so mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Resting is Key: After baking, let your meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to cut and more flavorful.
- Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mix! Fresh parsley, thyme, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for a leaner ground beef to keep your meatloaf from becoming greasy. A blend of 80% lean beef and 20% fat is a great balance for flavor and moisture.
- Leftovers Make Great Sandwiches: If you have any meatloaf left over, slice it up for delicious sandwiches the next day. Just add some lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of ketchup for a quick lunch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
