Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has graced dinner tables for generations. It’s beloved for its simplicity, hearty texture, and the myriad ways it can be customized to suit different tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, mastering the art of meatloaf can elevate your culinary repertoire. This guide will walk you through the process of making a mouthwatering meatloaf that is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. From selecting the right ingredients to nailing the perfect cooking technique, these tips will help you create a meatloaf that stands out. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for the Best Homemade Meatloaf
To create the best homemade meatloaf, you’ll need a combination of high-quality ingredients and the right blend of seasonings. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
Meatloaf:
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of 80% lean ground beef
- Ground Pork: 1/2 pound of ground pork
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs
- Milk: 1/2 cup of whole milk
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup of ketchup (plus more for topping)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Parsley: 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
Topping:
- Ketchup: 1/2 cup
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
How to Make the Best Homemade Meatloaf
Creating the perfect meatloaf involves a few key steps. Follow these instructions to ensure your meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Mixing two types of meat enhances the flavor and texture of the meatloaf.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture. These aromatics provide a robust flavor base.
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs have absorbed the milk. This step helps keep the meatloaf moist.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf
Add the soaked breadcrumbs to the meat mixture, followed by the beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Add the chopped parsley for a fresh, herbaceous note. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, approximately 9×5 inches in size. Ensure the loaf is evenly shaped for uniform cooking.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the brown sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This sweet and tangy glaze adds a delicious finishing touch to the meatloaf.
Spread half of the ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining ketchup mixture over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf!
About the Main Ingredients
Ground Beef and Ground Pork
Using a combination of ground beef and ground pork enhances the flavor and texture of the meatloaf. Ground beef provides a rich, meaty taste, while ground pork adds a subtle sweetness and additional fat, making the meatloaf juicier. Opting for 80% lean ground beef ensures a good balance of fat and meat, preventing the meatloaf from becoming too dry or greasy.
Onion and Garlic
Onion and garlic are essential aromatics that build the flavor foundation of the meatloaf. Finely chopping the onion ensures it blends seamlessly into the meat mixture, releasing its natural sweetness and enhancing the overall taste. Minced garlic adds a robust, savory note that complements the other ingredients.
Breadcrumbs and Milk
Breadcrumbs soaked in milk act as a binder and moisture-retainer in the meatloaf. This mixture, known as a panade, helps to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy. The breadcrumbs absorb the milk, preventing the meat from becoming dense and dry during cooking.
Eggs
Eggs serve as a binding agent, holding the meat mixture together. They also contribute to the moist texture of the meatloaf, ensuring it slices cleanly without falling apart.
Ketchup and Worcestershire Sauce
Ketchup adds a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf, while Worcestershire sauce provides a depth of flavor with its umami-rich ingredients. These condiments enhance the overall taste, making the meatloaf more savory and satisfying.
Fresh Parsley and Seasonings
Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a mild, herbaceous flavor to the meatloaf. It complements the richness of the meat and adds a fresh note to each bite. The combination of salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano seasons the meat mixture perfectly, ensuring every slice is flavorful.
Topping
The topping, made from ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar, creates a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes during baking. This glaze adds a delightful contrast to the savory meatloaf, enhancing its overall flavor and appearance.
Mastering the art of meatloaf involves selecting high-quality ingredients, balancing flavors, and cooking the meatloaf to perfection. By following these tips and using the right blend of ingredients, you can create a homemade meatloaf that is juicy, flavorful, and sure to impress. Enjoy this classic comfort food with your family and friends, and savor the delicious results of your culinary efforts.
