Meatloaf is a staple in many households—simple, comforting, and satisfying. This easy meatloaf recipe combines basic ingredients for a flavorful and moist dish, perfect for any night of the week. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious meatloaf with minimal fuss.
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| Easy Meatloaf Recipe: Your Go-To Guide for a Classic Dish |
Is the basic meatloaf formula?
The basic meatloaf formula combines ground meat (usually beef, sometimes with pork for added flavor), breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to bind and flavor the loaf. Add moisture with milk or a sauce like ketchup or Worcestershire. Shape it in a pan, top with a glaze (like ketchup), and bake until cooked through for a tender, flavorful meatloaf every time.
What ingredients are in meatloaf?
Meatloaf typically includes ground meat (like beef or a beef-pork blend), breadcrumbs, egg, and milk for binding and moisture. Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic, and onions add flavor, often topped with a ketchup or BBQ glaze for a tangy finish.
What is the basic meatloaf formula with ketchup?
The basic meatloaf formula with ketchup includes ground meat (often beef or a beef-pork blend), breadcrumbs, an egg, milk for binding and moisture, and seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic, and onion. Ketchup is added to the mixture for flavor and used as a glaze on top, creating a tangy, slightly caramelized layer when baked.
What is the secret to a great meatloaf?
The secret to a great meatloaf is keeping it moist and flavorful. Use a mix of ground meats (like beef and pork), add moisture with milk or ketchup, and avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender. Season well, and top with a ketchup or BBQ glaze for a deliciously caramelized finish. Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps retain its juiciness.
What gives meatloaf the best flavor?
The best flavor in meatloaf comes from a balanced mix of ingredients. Combining ground beef with pork adds richness, while seasonings like garlic, onions, salt, and pepper enhance taste. Worcestershire sauce and ketchup bring savory depth and a touch of sweetness, and a topping glaze (like ketchup or BBQ sauce) adds a caramelized finish. Fresh herbs or spices, like thyme or parsley, can add extra flavor complexity.
Why do you put milk in meatloaf?
Milk is added to the meatloaf to keep it moist and tender. It softens the breadcrumbs, which helps bind the ingredients together and prevents the meatloaf from drying out during baking. This gives the meatloaf a juicier, more tender texture.
What not to put in meatloaf?
Avoid using too many fillers like oats or excessive breadcrumbs, as these can make the meatloaf dense and dry. Steer clear of watery vegetables (like large chunks of tomatoes or zucchini) unless well-drained, as they can cause the meatloaf to fall apart. Overpowering spices or herbs can also mask the classic flavors, so it’s best to keep seasonings balanced and simple.
What does adding an extra egg to meatloaf do?
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| Easy Meatloaf Recipe: Your Go-To Guide for a Classic Dish |
Adding an extra egg to the meatloaf helps bind the ingredients together more firmly, creating a cohesive texture. Eggs add moisture and richness, contributing to a tender, juicy loaf. However, too many eggs can make the meatloaf dense, so using just the right amount for balance is best.
What do you place in the meatloaf to hold it back from going to pieces?
To keep the meatloaf from falling apart, include binding ingredients such as breadcrumbs and eggs, which help hold the mixture together. Adding milk or broth provides moisture, ensuring a tender texture. Mixing the ingredients gently and avoiding overmixing also helps maintain structure. Additionally, forming the loaf tightly and using a loaf pan can provide support during baking.
Tips and Variations:
1. Mix meats: Combine ground beef with pork or turkey for enhanced flavor and moisture.
2. Season well: Use fresh herbs, garlic, and onions to elevate the taste.
3. Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added moisture and nutrition.
4. Try different toppings: Experiment with BBQ sauce, teriyaki glaze, or even a layer of cheese for a unique twist.
5. Utilize inventive fillers: Rather than breadcrumbs, attempt squashed saltines, oats, or quinoa for an alternate surface.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix with pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the broiler to 350°F (175°C) and oil a portion skillet.
2. In a bowl, combine the meats, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, egg, milk, and ketchup, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Mix until just combined, then shape into a loaf in the pan.
4. Top with a layer of ketchup and bake for 55–60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let it rest before slicing and serving.
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| Easy Meatloaf Recipe: Your Go-To Guide for a Classic Dish |