Introducing a scrumptious delight that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more – the Meatloaf Au Gratin! This culinary masterpiece combines the hearty goodness of ground beef with the richness of cheddar cheese, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend family feast. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish comes together, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.
Let’s delve into the recipe details and explore the magic behind this delectable Meatloaf Au Gratin:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 1/4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of prepared mustard
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup of ketchup
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 369.6
- Fat: 23.3g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 118.4mg
- Sodium: 835.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 11.4g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 2.5g
- Protein: 27g
Servings: 8
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooking Instructions:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or loaf pan lightly to prevent sticking.
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Mixing the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, egg, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, prepared mustard, salt, and breadcrumbs. Gently mix the ingredients until well blended, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
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Shaping the Loaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared baking dish or loaf pan. Ensure the loaf is evenly shaped for uniform cooking.
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Baking the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During baking, you may notice drippings accumulating in the pan. Carefully pour off the excess drippings to prevent the meatloaf from becoming too greasy.
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Adding the Toppings: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the barbecue sauce, creating a tantalizing cheesy crust.
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Finishing Touch: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Serving: Once the meatloaf is golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve slices of the Meatloaf Au Gratin hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
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Enjoy: Dive into each savory bite of this Meatloaf Au Gratin and savor the irresistible combination of flavors and textures. With its hearty beefy goodness and gooey cheese topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite in no time!
Tips and Variations:
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the meat mixture, such as garlic powder, thyme, or paprika, for an extra flavor boost.
- Substitute different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- For a healthier version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for low-fat cheese and barbecue sauce.
- Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a quick and convenient meal option.
Indulge in the comforting goodness of this Meatloaf Au Gratin recipe and let its savory flavors transport you to a culinary paradise. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this hearty dish is sure to impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a memorable dining experience with this mouthwatering recipe from Love with Recipes!
