Best Meatloaf Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the timeless appeal of a well-made meatloaf. With its juicy interior and perfectly caramelized crust, meatloaf has been a family favorite for generations. In this blog post, I’ll share my ultimate meatloaf recipe, along with tips and tricks to ensure yours turns out perfect every time.

The Perfect Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (fresh or panko)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk. This step ensures a moist meatloaf.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a small skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and parsley to the breadcrumb mixture. Then, add the sautéed onions and garlic. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
5. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf shape, approximately 9×5 inches.
6. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Brush half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, brush the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

• Use a Mix of Meats: Combining ground beef and pork adds flavor and moisture to the meatloaf. You can also use ground veal or turkey if preferred.
• Soak Your Breadcrumbs: Allowing the breadcrumbs to soak in milk helps keep the meatloaf moist.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing ensures it holds together and the juices are evenly distributed.

Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and even add-ins like cheese or vegetables. With this ultimate recipe and tips, you’re sure to create a meatloaf that will become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy!

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I hope you find this guide helpful. If you have any questions or variations you love, feel free to share in the comments! Happy cooking!