Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction:
In the realm of comfort foods, few dishes evoke the same sense of nostalgia and satisfaction as a hearty slice of meatloaf. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering with friends, meatloaf never fails to bring people together over its savory, comforting goodness. Today, I’m excited to share with you a classic meatloaf recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser texture.
3. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape with your hands. Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan to prevent any air pockets.
4. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is nicely browned. You can test for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf – it should register at least 160°F (71°C).
5. 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, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
6. Serve slices of meatloaf warm, garnished with a drizzle of ketchup or your favorite gravy, alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion: With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this classic meatloaf recipe is a testament to the beauty of comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a taste of home, a slice of this savory masterpiece is sure to satisfy. So go ahead, preheat that oven and let the aroma of homemade goodness fill your kitchen – because when it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a timeless meatloaf recipe.