Recipe: Classic Meatloaf
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Description:
Indulge in the timeless comfort of this Classic Meatloaf recipe! A beloved favorite that has stood the test of time, this meatloaf has been perfected by my husband through years of culinary experimentation. Bursting with savory flavors and tender textures, it’s sure to become a cherished staple in your family’s meal rotation. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty dish to impress guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the details and savor the magic of homemade meatloaf!
Recipe Category: Meat
Keywords: Kid Friendly, Free Of…, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 yellow onions, finely diced
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves, fresh or dried
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon dry mustard
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 362.1
- Fat Content: 19.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 7.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 125.8mg
- Sodium Content: 665.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 18.8g
- Fiber Content: 1.4g
- Sugar Content: 6g
- Protein Content: 25.9g
Aggregated Rating: 4 stars
Review Count: 3
Recipe Instructions:
-
Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly and to perfection.
-
Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced yellow onions, kosher salt, thyme leaves, and freshly ground black pepper. These aromatic ingredients will infuse your meatloaf with rich, savory flavors.
-
Mix wet ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until well combined. This creamy mixture adds moisture and richness to the meatloaf, ensuring a tender texture.
-
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually pour the milk and egg mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently with a fork until fully incorporated. Allow the mixture to stand for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Incorporate ground beef: Add the ground beef to the bowl, using your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients together. This hands-on approach ensures even distribution of flavors and a cohesive texture.
-
Shape the loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a nonstick 9″ x 5″ loaf pan, gently packing it in and pressing firmly to shape the loaf. This step ensures that your meatloaf maintains its form as it bakes.
-
Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until cooked through and golden brown on top. While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the glaze.
-
Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the tomato sauce, light brown sugar, and dry mustard. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to keep it warm.
-
Glaze the meatloaf: Once the meatloaf has baked for 1 hour, remove it from the oven and brush lightly with some of the prepared tomato sauce mixture. This adds a sweet and tangy glaze to the meatloaf, enhancing its flavor and appearance.
-
Final bake: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly and create a beautiful crust.
-
Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve slices of meatloaf with the remaining tomato sauce mixture on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Classic Meatloaf recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple yet satisfying ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or leisurely family dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of this comforting classic fill your kitchen with warmth and deliciousness. Enjoy!