Looking for a comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals? Look no further than the Old Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf! This classic American recipe is not just a nostalgic favorite; it’s a culinary masterpiece that combines simple ingredients to create a hearty, flavorful meal. In just under an hour, you can whip up a delicious meatloaf that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s both easy to make and utterly satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your cast-iron skillet or large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the skillet with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently shape the meat mixture into a compact oval or rectangular shape that will fit comfortably in your skillet, ensuring an even thickness of about 1-
- 5 inches.
- Transfer the formed meatloaf carefully into the preheated skillet. Cook on medium heat for approximately 5-7 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust on the bottom.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and continue cooking for about 35-40 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked ground beef.
- Optional: During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush additional ketchup on top of the meatloaf for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
- Once fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board, slice into 1-inch thick pieces, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (around 80/20). This will keep your meatloaf juicy and delicious.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the meat. This can lead to a dense meatloaf. Just mix until everything is well combined.
- Shape Matters: Ensure your meatloaf is shaped evenly, about 1-
- 5 inches thick, for consistent cooking. An even shape helps it cook through without drying out.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This guarantees it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender slice.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! A mix of ketchup and brown sugar, or even barbecue sauce, can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Pair It Right: Serve your meatloaf with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
