Meatloaf An Old Classic That Reminds Me of My Father
Some dishes take you right back to being a kid. For me, meatloaf does just that. Growing up in a traditional family of four kids, a dog, a cat, a hardworking mom, and a dad who was the breadwinner, times were sometimes tough. Like many families, we lived on a tight budget, and my mom had to get creative in the kitchen. Meatloaf was one of those meals that my dad really loved, and if we slathered enough ketchup on it, we kids would eat it too. I still remember the sight of my mom in the kitchen, managing to put out delicious meals every single day, even though she worked outside the home too. She was our very own Super Woman. Meatloaf was a regular on our dinner table, a cost-friendly, hearty dish that fed our big family without breaking the bank. Those meals were more than just food; they were a testament to my mom's love and resourcefulness, and meatloaf has always been a reminder of that.
Did You Know?
Meatloaf has been a staple in American cuisine since the 19th century, evolving from European recipes that date back to Roman times. Fun fact: During the Great Depression, meatloaf became popular because it was a budget-friendly way to stretch meat using fillers like breadcrumbs and oats!
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Personal Tip: Preheating the oven ensures even cooking right from the start.
Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix until well combined.
Personal Tip: Mixing by hand gives you better control over the texture of the meatloaf.
Shape the Loaf:
Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf that fits your baking dish.
Personal Tip: Wet your hands with water before shaping the meatloaf to prevent sticking.
Add the Topping:
Spread the remaining 1/2 cup ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
Personal Tip: For a tangier topping, mix in a little mustard or brown sugar with the ketchup.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Personal Tip: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with sprigs of thyme.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 25g, Fiber: 2g, Net Carbohydrates: 23g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Cholesterol: 125mg, Sodium: 900mg, Sugars: 10g, Glycemic Index: Medium
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Choosing Meat: Use a mix of ground beef, pork, or veal for a more flavorful meatloaf. Lean ground turkey can be used for a healthier version.
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Breadcrumb Alternatives: Substitute breadcrumbs with oats, crushed crackers, or even cooked quinoa for a different texture and added nutrition.
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Adding Vegetables: Finely chop and add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
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Thickening the Topping: Mix ketchup with a bit of brown sugar and Dijon mustard for a thicker, sweeter topping.
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Freezing Tips: Meatloaf can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
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Portion Control: Make individual mini meatloaves using a muffin tin for portion control and quicker cooking time.
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Reducing Fat: Use lean ground beef and skim milk to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
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Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of hot sauce or barbecue sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
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Cost-Saving Tips: Buy ground meat in bulk when on sale. Using store-brand ketchup and Worcestershire sauce can also help reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying Classic Meatloaf that is both comforting and budget-friendly. Enjoy this timeless dish while making smart choices in the kitchen!
What Is The Difference In Hamburger Fats and Quality and Flavor?
Not all ground beef is created equal. Ground beef comes in various fat percentages, and each offers a different flavor and texture profile. The most common varieties are 70/30, 80/20, and 90/10, with the first number representing the lean meat percentage and the second number the fat content. Higher fat content (like 70/30) results in a juicier, more flavorful meatloaf, but it also adds more calories and saturated fat. On the other hand, leaner options (like 90/10) are healthier but may result in a drier dish if not cooked properly. The quality of beef can also vary, with grass-fed beef offering a richer flavor and more health benefits compared to conventional grain-fed beef. Choosing the right balance between fat and flavor is key to making a meatloaf that satisfies both your taste buds and dietary needs.