🍽️ Ann’s Old Fashioned Meatloaf 🍖
What is it?
Ann’s Old Fashioned Meatloaf is a classic American comfort food dish made from ground meat, typically beef, mixed with various ingredients and seasonings, then shaped into a loaf and baked until it’s deliciously moist and flavorful. It’s often served with a savory sauce or gravy.
History:
The exact origin of meatloaf is unclear, but it has been a staple in American cuisine for centuries. It likely evolved from European meat dishes and became popular in the United States during the 19th century. Meatloaf recipes have been passed down through generations and vary by region and family traditions.
Components:
Ann’s Old Fashioned Meatloaf typically consists of the following components:
- Ground meat (usually beef, but pork, veal, or a combination can be used)
- Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (to bind the meat)
- Eggs (to further bind the mixture)
- Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs)
- Diced onions and garlic (for flavor)
- Ketchup or tomato sauce (for moisture and flavor)
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Ann’s Old Fashioned Meatloaf:
-
Gather Your Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup of diced onions
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 1/2 cup of ketchup or tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor
-
Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onions, minced garlic, half of the ketchup or tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. -
Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf shape on a baking sheet. -
Add Topping:
Spread the remaining ketchup or tomato sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and helps keep the loaf moist while baking. -
Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). -
Rest and Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Time Needed:
- Preparation: 15-20 minutes
- Baking: 1 hour
- Resting: 5-10 minutes
So, in total, you can expect Ann’s Old Fashioned Meatloaf to be ready in approximately 1 hour and 25-30 minutes. Enjoy this comforting classic! 🍽️😊
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Ann’s Old Fashioned Meatloaf:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: 350-400 calories
- Total Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
- Sodium: 600-800 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 3-5 grams
- Protein: 25-30 grams
Health Information:
- Protein: Meatloaf is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Fats: It contains fats, with some being saturated fats. Moderation is key as excessive saturated fat intake can be linked to heart issues.
- Sodium: The sodium content can be relatively high, mainly due to added salt and ketchup. High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension.
- Calories: The calorie content can vary depending on ingredients used. Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake.
- Carbohydrates: It contains some carbohydrates, primarily from breadcrumbs or crackers. It’s not a low-carb dish.
- Fiber: It provides a small amount of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Meatloaf may contain essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins from the meat and eggs.
- Vegetable Additions: You can enhance the nutrition by adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to the mixture for added vitamins and fiber.
It’s important to balance meatloaf with a variety of other foods in your diet to ensure you get a wide range of nutrients. Additionally, you can choose leaner meats and reduce the amount of salt for a healthier version.
