The Ultimate Comfort Food: Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Meatloaf is the quintessential comfort food that evokes warm, nostalgic feelings of home-cooked meals. This classic dish has been a staple in American cuisine for generations, and it’s not hard to see why. With its savory blend of ground meat, seasonings, and a flavorful glaze, meatloaf offers a satisfying and hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps of creating the ultimate meatloaf recipe that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2/3 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Mix them together gently but thoroughly.
3. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. It’s important not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet. You can make it as compact or as free-form as you like, but a classic loaf shape is traditional.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the glaze: ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Brush the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the center of the meatloaf.
7. Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist.
8. Slice and serve your classic meatloaf with your favorite side dishes. Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and a rich gravy make excellent companions for this comforting meal.

Conclusion

Meatloaf is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. With its simple yet satisfying combination of ground meat, seasonings, and a sweet and tangy glaze, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, this classic meatloaf recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the taste of nostalgia and the warmth it brings to your table!