Meatloaf, with its hearty blend of ground meat, savory seasonings, and comforting flavors, holds a special place in the realm of classic comfort foods. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner or a nostalgic family favorite, meatloaf has the power to warm hearts and satisfy appetites with its delicious simplicity. In this culinary journey, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect meatloaf – a timeless dish that embodies warmth, flavor, and the joy of homemade goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk.
- Add the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, chopped onion, celery, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the soaked breadcrumbs.
- Using clean hands or a fork, gently mix the ingredients until evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking dish or loaf pan. Use your hands to shape it into a loaf shape, smoothing the top and compacting it slightly.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to make the glaze.
5. Glaze and Bake the Meatloaf:
- Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, using a spoon or pastry brush to coat it completely.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the top is caramelized and slightly crispy.
6. Rest and Serve:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for easier slicing.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Tips for Success:
- Mixing Technique: Be gentle when mixing the meatloaf ingredients to avoid a tough texture. Mix until just combined for the best results.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the meatloaf with your favorite herbs, spices, or additional ingredients such as diced carrots, mushrooms, or cheese.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for ground meat.
- Leftovers: Meatloaf makes excellent leftovers! Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion:
Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food classic that never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its flavorful blend of ground meat, aromatic seasonings, and tangy glaze, homemade meatloaf is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort and home cooking. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner, a weekend indulgence, or a nostalgic favorite from childhood, meatloaf has a special place in the hearts and kitchens of food lovers everywhere. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary journey to create the perfect meatloaf – a delicious masterpiece that celebrates the joy of comfort food at its best.