Who doesn’t love a good, hearty slice of meatloaf, right? Just the thought of a tender, juicy slice of homemade meatloaf drenched in tangy tomato-based glaze, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes, makes my mouth water. Is there anything more comforting than a meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day?
For me, making meatloaf is like painting a canvas – it gives me a chance to experiment, to mix and match, to create something beautiful out of simple ingredients. With an open mind and a dash of creativity, it’s amazing what you can whip up in your kitchen. Ready to embark on this culinary journey?
The Magic of Meatloaf
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making meatloaf. It’s the transformation of simple, everyday ingredients into something that’s more than the sum of its parts. The process, as simple as it may seem, is actually a delicate balance of flavors and textures.
From the burst of flavor from the ketchup-glaze to the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the meat, every element of a meatloaf comes together to create a symphony of tastes. And like any good symphony, it requires not only the right notes, but the right conductor to bring out its magic.
A Family Recipe
The recipe I’m about to share with you is a beloved family heirloom, passed down through generations. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of meatloaf and the love and care that goes into making it.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked and refined this recipe, making subtle changes to enhance its flavor, texture, and appeal. Every time I make it, I am reminded of the cherished memories associated with it, and I hope it will create equally wonderful memories for you and your family.
Key to a Perfect Meatloaf
The secret to a perfect meatloaf lies in its ingredients and the way they’re combined. The type of meat used, the seasoning, the moisture content – all these factors play a crucial role in determining the final outcome.
Another important factor is the cooking process. Meatloaf is not something you can rush. It requires patience and careful attention. But trust me, the wait is absolutely worth it.
Ingredients
- 1 lb of ground beef
- 1/2 lb of ground pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 cup of milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of ketchup
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the glaze: 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a loaf pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the glaze. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Tips for Meatloaf
1. Use a mix of meats for a more flavorful and juicy meatloaf. 2. Don’t overmix the ingredients as it can make the meatloaf tough. 3. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This meatloaf recipe stands out because it brings together the best of flavors and textures, resulting in a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly delicious. The addition of a tangy-sweet glaze takes it to another level, making it a sure hit with both kids and adults.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 350 kcal per slice