FILLING MEATLOAF ON THE STOVE

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) with the breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, thyme, cheese (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.

2. Shape the Meatloaf:

Once your mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf shape using your hands. You want it to be compact but not too tight, as this will help it cook evenly and stay moist.

3. Cook the Meatloaf on the Stove:

Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably nonstick or cast-iron) over medium heat. Once hot, lightly grease the skillet with a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

Place the meatloaf in the skillet, and cook it uncovered for about 10-12 minutes on each side. Use tongs or a spatula to gently flip the meatloaf so that all sides are evenly browned. This browning helps develop flavor and adds to the texture of the meatloaf.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

While the meatloaf is cooking, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar (if using). The sugar in the glaze will caramelize slightly while cooking, creating a delicious, sticky coating on the meatloaf.

5. Glaze the Meatloaf:

Once the meatloaf is browned on all sides, brush a generous amount of the glaze over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the meatloaf cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meat is fully cooked through.

6. Serve:

Once the meatloaf is cooked and the glaze has caramelized, carefully remove the meatloaf from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more flavorful and moist.

Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Convenient: Traditional meatloaf requires baking, which can take up to an hour. By cooking the meatloaf on the stove, you can have a hearty meal ready in just 40-50 minutes. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling but don’t have much time.
• One-Pan Cooking: Since everything is cooked in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze. No need to mess with baking pans or multiple pots and dishes—just cook and serve from the same pan.
• Customizable: This recipe is highly customizable. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. For example, you can use oatmeal instead of breadcrumbs, add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture, or try different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
• Moist and Flavorful: The milk and breadcrumbs keep the meatloaf moist, while the glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. The result is a flavorful, juicy meatloaf that won’t dry out.

Tips for Perfect Stove-Top Meatloaf:

• Don’t Overmix: While mixing the ingredients, be sure not to overwork the meat mixture. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf, so mix until everything is just combined.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The meatloaf is done when it reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Cover While Cooking: Covering the meatloaf with a lid helps it cook evenly, traps moisture, and keeps it from drying out. It also helps the glaze set on top.
• Let It Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to settle and makes for cleaner slices.

Variations to Try:

• Vegetarian Meatloaf: For a meatless version, try using lentils, chickpeas, or a combination of finely chopped mushrooms and walnuts in place of the meat. You can follow the same steps and cook on the stove.
• Spicy Meatloaf: Add some heat to your meatloaf by incorporating chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. You can also spice up the glaze with a little bit of sriracha or cayenne pepper.
• Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of cheese, spinach, or other fillings in the center of the meatloaf before cooking for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion:

Making meatloaf on the stove is a quick, easy, and flavorful way to enjoy this classic dish. With a crispy, glazed exterior and a moist, hearty interior, this stove-top meatloaf is perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without the long cooking time. It’s versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving a satisfying meal with minimal effort!