Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering experience? Our South Side Meat Loaf isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary journey that promises to bring warmth, flavor, and pure satisfaction to your dinner table. This classic American dish combines juicy ground beef, savory seasonings, and a touch of sweetness that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend culinary enthusiast, this foolproof recipe guarantees a delicious meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a spoon to mix them together until they are well combined.
- Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion to the meat mixture. This will add flavor and moisture to your meatloaf.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of milk and 1 egg until they are fully combined. Then, pour this mixture into the meat mixture.
- Next, add 1/4 cup of ketchup to the bowl. This will add sweetness and a bit of tang to your meatloaf.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that you can always adjust the seasoning later, so start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape. Make sure it is evenly packed and smooth on top.
- If desired, you can spread an additional layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture during baking.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 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 about 10 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf.
- After resting, slice the meatloaf into 8 servings and serve warm. Enjoy your South Side Meat Loaf with your favorite sides!
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ground beef with a moderate fat content (around 80/20) for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Don't overmix the ingredients—this can make your meat loaf tough and dense.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or grated carrots to the mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Let the meat loaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it retain its juices and make slicing easier.
- For a crispy top, broil the meat loaf for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Experiment with different glazes like BBQ sauce or a honey-mustard blend for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 168kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
