This Ultimate Meatloaf brings a comforting and hearty experience to the table, with its rich combination of beef and pork, seasoned to perfection. The glaze adds a beautiful sweet and tangy finish, making each slice irresistible. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, this dish will be the star of your family dinners.
What’s great about this recipe is that it’s not only easy to make but also customizable to your taste. Add more spices, try different meats, or switch up the glaze to suit your preference. Whether it’s a special occasion or just another weeknight, this meatloaf is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
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1/2 pound ground pork
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 egg
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup BBQ sauce
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk and set aside for about 10 minutes to soak.
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, ketchup, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, and paprika. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
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Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan, pressing it down firmly to create an even surface.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
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Serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Meatloaf: A Timeless Comfort Food
Meatloaf is one of those classic dishes that has stood the test of time. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that brings together simple ingredients into a dish that feels like home. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, meatloaf offers the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and heartiness. This Ultimate Meatloaf recipe takes the traditional dish to the next level, offering a savory, tender interior with a sweet and tangy glaze on top. In this article, we’ll explore the magic behind this dish, share tips for making it even better, and discuss why it’s a staple in kitchens everywhere.
Why Meatloaf Is a Crowd-Pleaser
Meatloaf is undeniably one of the most popular comfort foods. It has everything you’d want in a meal: it’s easy to make, it’s versatile, and it always satisfies. One of the key reasons meatloaf is so beloved is because it’s a meal that appeals to all ages. Whether it’s a busy parent trying to get dinner on the table or a foodie looking to perfect their take on a classic, meatloaf is a versatile choice that can be customized for anyone’s taste.
Traditionally made with ground beef, meatloaf has evolved over the years to include a variety of ground meats, such as pork, veal, turkey, or chicken. The combination of beef and pork in this particular recipe creates a balanced flavor beef provides richness, while pork adds tenderness and moisture. When combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, the result is a perfectly juicy and tender meatloaf that holds its shape but doesn’t dry out.
The Importance of the Glaze
What truly sets this Ultimate Meatloaf apart is the glaze. The glaze adds an extra layer of flavor and gives the meatloaf its signature shine. Ketchup is the traditional base of many meatloaf glazes, but in this recipe, the addition of BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce adds complexity, sweetness, and a slight tang that complements the savory nature of the meat. The glaze also gives the meatloaf a slightly caramelized, crispy outer layer that contrasts wonderfully with the tender, juicy meat inside.
You can always experiment with your glaze to suit your tastes. Some like it sweeter, using brown sugar or honey, while others might opt for something spicier with hot sauce or mustard. The glaze is where you can let your creativity shine and make the meatloaf truly your own.
The Versatility of Meatloaf
One of the best things about meatloaf is how versatile it is. The ingredients can be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences, and it’s a great way to use up leftovers or whatever you have on hand. The basic combination of meat, breadcrumbs, and egg can be elevated with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices.
For example, you can add finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can also be added for extra freshness. You can experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko for a crunchier texture, or even use crushed crackers for a different flavor profile. The beauty of meatloaf is that it’s a blank canvas add what you like, and it will still turn out delicious.
Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
To achieve the perfect meatloaf, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. First, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Overworking the meat can lead to a tough and dense meatloaf, which is definitely not what we’re aiming for. Simply mix until all the ingredients are just combined.
Next, make sure to use lean meats, but not too lean. You want enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist but not so much that it becomes greasy. A ratio of 80% lean beef and 20% fat is ideal, and the addition of pork helps with moisture retention.
When shaping the meatloaf, don’t pack the mixture too tightly into the pan. A gentle press is all you need to ensure it holds its shape during baking. Packing it too tight will result in a dense loaf that lacks the airy texture and moistness we all love.
Finally, let the meatloaf rest after baking. Just like a roast or a steak, allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing will help redistribute the juices, ensuring that each slice is as juicy as the last.
How to Serve the Ultimate Meatloaf
The Ultimate Meatloaf is a great dish for any meal. It pairs well with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a truly comforting meal, serve it with a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes, some gravy, and a side of sautéed green beans. If you’re looking to keep things a bit lighter, consider serving it with roasted cauliflower or a leafy green salad.
For those who like a little kick, a side of spicy pickles or a drizzle of hot sauce can add a nice contrast to the rich and savory meatloaf. You can even slice it thinly and serve it on a sandwich, with melted cheese and a dollop of the glaze, for a mouthwatering twist on a classic lunch.
Leftovers: The Best Part of Meatloaf
One of the great advantages of making meatloaf is that it stores incredibly well. Leftover meatloaf can be enjoyed in a variety of ways the next day. Slice it thin and place it on a sandwich or wrap, or crumble it into a pasta sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. You can even use it as a topping for a hearty meatloaf pizza, combining comfort food with a fun twist.
Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven for a few minutes to warm through, or microwave it if you’re in a hurry. For longer storage, meatloaf freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.
Conclusion:
The Ultimate Meatloaf is a timeless dish that offers both comfort and versatility. Whether you’re serving it to a family of four or preparing it for a potluck, it’s a meal that’s sure to please. This recipe brings together the best elements of meatloaf juicy beef and pork, a rich glaze, and the perfect balance of seasoning creating a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make. The beauty of meatloaf is that it’s endlessly customizable, so don’t hesitate to tweak the recipe to make it your own. Try different glazes, experiment with spices, or add extra veggies. The result will always be a hearty, satisfying meal that never goes out of style.
So, the next time you’re craving a comforting meal, don’t overlook the power of meatloaf. With its tender texture, savory flavors, and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Enjoy!