Oven-Baked Meatloaf Recipe: A Comforting Second Course for Six

Meatloaf is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This version, baked to perfection with a flavorful blend of meats and served alongside savory roasted potatoes, is sure to delight your family or guests. Below, you’ll find the detailed steps, ingredients, and nutritional information to guide you through preparing this delicious dish.

Ingredients

Meatloaf

Potato Side Dish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Remove the crust from the fresh bread and cut the soft interior into cubes.
2. Place the cubes into a bowl and pour in the milk. Let the bread soak for a few minutes until soft.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and sausage.
2. Add the grated Pecorino cheese, the milk-soaked bread (lightly squeezed to remove excess liquid), and the eggs.
3. Sprinkle in the nutmeg, a few fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper to taste.
4. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until they form a uniform mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

1. Form the meat mixture into a cylindrical loaf, ensuring it is compact and evenly shaped.
2. Place the loaf onto a sheet of parchment paper and brush the surface with extra virgin olive oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Potato Side Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) in static mode.
2. Wash the red potatoes thoroughly under running water. Dice them into evenly sized chunks for even roasting.
3. Peel the shallots and cut them into eighths.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes and shallots.
5. Add fresh thyme sprigs, torn sage leaves, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until the potatoes are well coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Lightly grease the bottom of a large baking tray with olive oil. Spread the potato mixture evenly across the tray.
2. Place the prepared meatloaf in the center of the tray, ensuring the potatoes surround the loaf but do not touch it directly.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F) and the potatoes are golden brown and tender.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes.
2. Slice the meatloaf into thick, even pieces and serve alongside the roasted potatoes and shallots.

Pro Tips for Success

• For added flavor, you can mix a tablespoon of your favorite herbs (such as parsley or rosemary) into the meatloaf mixture.
• If you prefer a crispier exterior, brush the meatloaf with olive oil once more halfway through baking.
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the roasted potatoes before serving will add a touch of tangy sweetness.

Enjoy this hearty oven-baked meatloaf with roasted potatoes, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions. Share the joy of this timeless dish, lovingly crafted, on your table today!