Why Make This Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that many people love. This Easy and Excellent Meatloaf recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly and can feed a crowd. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Easy and Excellent Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, ketchup, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce to create the glaze.
- Spread the glaze over the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Easy and Excellent Meatloaf
Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. You can also pair it with a salad for a lighter option. Slicing the meatloaf into thick pieces makes for easy servings. Leftover meatloaf can be enjoyed in sandwiches or as a main dish the next day.
How to Store Easy and Excellent Meatloaf
To store leftover meatloaf, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—wrap it well and it can last up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Easy and Excellent Meatloaf
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture as it can become tough.
- If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or pepper flakes to the mixture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped parsley or garlic.
- Adjust the ketchup quantity based on your taste; you can use BBQ sauce as an alternative.
Variation
You can customize this meatloaf by using different types of ground meat, such as turkey or pork. Adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can also boost nutrition and flavor. For a cheesy twist, mix in shredded cheese before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Just ensure it cooks thoroughly.
2. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
3. What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
To prevent dry meatloaf, be sure not to overcook it. Adding a little more milk or a couple of tablespoons of tomato sauce can help keep it moist.
Easy and Excellent Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup for the meat mixture
- to taste Salt
- to taste pepper
Glaze Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup for glaze
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, ketchup, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce to create the glaze.
- Spread the glaze over the meatloaf.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.