Meatloaf

Classic Baked Meatloaf 🍖🍽️

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for added moisture and flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (for the meat mixture)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • For the glaze:
    • 1/4 cup ketchup
    • 1 tbsp brown sugar
    • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork (if using).
  • Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  • Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined, but don’t overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Shape the Meatloaf:

  • Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan (or form a free-form loaf on a baking sheet).
  • Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape, ensuring it’s even on all sides.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

  • In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using). This glaze will give the meatloaf a sweet and tangy finish.

5. Bake the Meatloaf:

  • Spoon the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.
  • Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C), or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer.

6. Rest and Serve:

  • Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes it easier to slice.
  • Slice and serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Classic Baked Meatloaf is a satisfying and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze is the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy! 😋




Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf 🧀🍖

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • For the stuffing:
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • For the glaze:
    • 1/4 cup ketchup
    • 1 tbsp brown sugar
    • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the ground meats, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle on parchment paper.
  4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the center, then roll the meat mixture around the cheese to form a loaf.
  5. Apply the glaze on top.
  6. Bake for 1 hour at 350°F until fully cooked (internal temp of 160°F).
  7. Let it rest before slicing.




BBQ Meatloaf 🍖🍯

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 lb ground turkey or chicken (for leaner meat)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • For the glaze:
    • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
    • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the ground meats, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish or loaf pan.
  4. For the glaze, mix the barbecue sauce and honey.
  5. Brush the glaze on top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 1 hour at 350°F, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  7. Let it rest before slicing.


Italian Meatloaf 🍝🍖

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for mixing)
  • For the topping:
    • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the ground meats, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce until well combined.
  3. Form the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
  4. Spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
  5. Bake for 1 hour at 350°F, then top with mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Let it rest before slicing.

These variations keep the core essence of a classic meatloaf but offer exciting new flavors, such as gooey cheese in the middle, smoky BBQ goodness, or savory Italian flair. Enjoy! 😋