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Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will bake evenly and reach the perfect texture.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan (a 9×5-inch pan works well). If you prefer, you can also shape the meatloaf by hand into a free-form loaf on a lined baking sheet. This gives the meatloaf a more rustic look and allows the edges to crisp up a bit.
4. Top with Ketchup
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. You can also add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the ketchup if you like a slightly sweet glaze. This topping caramelizes as the meatloaf bakes, adding both flavor and moisture.
5. Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The top should be browned, and the ketchup glaze will have thickened and caramelized.
6. Let It Rest
After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve it with your favorite sides. Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few days or even frozen for later.
Customizing Your Meatloaf
One of the best things about meatloaf is how versatile it is. You can make small adjustments to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences:
- Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, try mixing in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or spinach. These can add moisture and freshness to the meatloaf.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different seasonings like thyme, basil, or smoked paprika to change up the flavor profile. Adding a little hot sauce or red pepper flakes can also give the meatloaf a spicy kick.
- Cheese: You can incorporate shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, directly into the meat mixture for added richness. Alternatively, top the meatloaf with a layer of cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, gooey finish.
- Glaze Variations: Try swapping the ketchup for barbecue sauce or a balsamic glaze for a different kind of topping. Some people even use a combination of ketchup and mustard for a tangy twist.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just enough to combine everything. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
- Use Lean Meat: If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, you can use ground turkey or chicken. However, be sure to add a little extra moisture, like a tablespoon of olive oil, since lean meats tend to be drier than beef.
- Resting Time: Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial for juicy slices. It also makes it easier to cut cleanly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through but still juicy, a meat thermometer is your best friend. The perfect internal temperature is 160°F (70°C).
Conclusion:
This easy and tasty meatloaf recipe is the perfect way to bring comfort to your dinner table without a lot of hassle. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Customize it to your liking, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please everyone.
So the next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner, give this classic meatloaf recipe a try. It’s the perfect balance of flavors, and best of all, it’s ready in just a few steps! Enjoy!
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