Steve’s World-Best Meatloaf
Overview
If you’ve ever turned your nose up at meatloaf, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by Steve’s World-Best Meatloaf, a dish that defies all the conventional stereotypes associated with this classic comfort food. This recipe has been crafted with care, and the secret lies in the savory sauce and glaze that elevate the flavor profile to a level that even the most discerning palates will adore. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, this meatloaf is not only toddler and kid-friendly but also a wonderful option for those chilly winter nights. Make it once, and you might just find yourself making it weekly, just like Steve’s husband!
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Description
This meatloaf recipe transcends the ordinary, thanks to a combination of tender ground beef, a delightful sauce, and a medley of seasonings that work in harmony to create a juicy and flavorful dish. Whether served with creamy mashed potatoes or honey-glazed carrots, this meatloaf is bound to win over even the pickiest of eaters. The flavorful glaze on top adds a rich, tangy sweetness that balances the savory meat perfectly, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious meatloaf:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 ½ – 2 lbs |
| Ketchup | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Black Pepper | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Ketchup (for glaze) | ¼ cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup |
| Prepared Mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Distilled White Vinegar | 4 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this meatloaf is packed with flavor and satisfying nutrients:
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 443.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 19.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 112.6 mg |
| Sodium | 1804.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 41.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugars | 25.1 g |
| Protein | 26.6 g |
Instructions
Creating Steve’s World-Best Meatloaf is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these detailed steps for a delightful dinner that will impress everyone at your table:
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Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, salt, and ground black pepper. Using your hands (or a fork, if you prefer), mix the ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated. You want to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat.
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Shape the Loaf: Once your meat mixture is combined, transfer it into a meatloaf pan or shape it into a loaf and place it on a shallow baking pan lined with aluminum foil. This will help keep the meatloaf moist as it bakes.
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Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, prepare the glaze by combining the ketchup, brown sugar, prepared mustard, and distilled white vinegar in the order listed. Mix well after each addition to ensure a smooth, cohesive sauce.
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Glaze the Loaf: Take ¼ to ½ cup of the prepared sauce and spread it generously over the top of the shaped meatloaf, allowing it to cover the entire surface. This will create a beautiful glaze that caramelizes while it cooks.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatloaf in the oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The glaze should be bubbling and slightly caramelized.
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Serve: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute within the loaf, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Serve with the remaining sauce on the side, and enjoy alongside your favorite sides, such as fluffy mashed potatoes and honey-glazed carrots.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Meat: For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground beef that is 80% lean. This will provide enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist without being overly greasy.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Storage: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can double the recipe and enjoy it later.
Conclusion
Steve’s World-Best Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish, guaranteed to make even meatloaf skeptics fall in love. With its savory flavor, satisfying texture, and easy preparation, this recipe is a perfect addition to your family’s dinner rotation. Enjoy the comfort of home-cooked goodness that brings everyone together at the table, making every meal memorable.
