Gorgeous Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a popular dish that has found its way into kitchens around the world. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish and brilliant for its affordability and versatility. At its core, meatloaf is a dish made from ground meat, typically beef, but it can also be made using pork, lamb, turkey, or a combination of these. The ingredients are shaped into a loaf and baked, hence the name.

One of the reasons for meatloaf’s widespread appeal is its adaptability. It can be customised to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. People often add breadcrumbs, eggs and seasonings to help bind the mixture, while vegetables such as onions, carrots or peppers can be included to boost flavour and nutrition. Some families have their own favourite additions, such as herbs, spices, or even cheese.

Meatloaf has a long history and has been a part of European cuisine for centuries. Its origins are often linked to making the most out of leftovers or more affordable cuts of meat. In the United States, the dish became especially popular during the Great Depression, as it provided a way to stretch meat further while feeding larger families. It continues to be a comforting, homestyle meal for many, providing a sense of tradition and nostalgia.

Despite its humble beginnings, meatloaf can be elevated to more gourmet versions. Some chefs use high-quality meats or add creative glazes, such as tomato-based sauces, mustard, or even sweet options like brown sugar or honey. These glazes not only enhance the flavour but also help to keep the meatloaf moist and tender as it bakes.

Leftover meatloaf is just as beloved as the freshly made version. It can be sliced for sandwiches, served cold or even crumbled into other dishes such as pasta sauces. Its versatility makes it a practical option for batch cooking and meal planning.

Meatloaf may seem like a simple dish, but it offers comfort, flavour, and creativity in every bite. From casual family dinners to more refined variations, this dish remains a favourite across many cultures and generations. It’s one of those dishes that everybody in my household enjoys.

Gorgeous Meatloaf

This classic meatloaf is a comforting and flavourful dish made from ground beef, vegetables, and a savoury glaze. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and a great choice for family meals. The result is a moist and tender meatloaf that pairs wonderfully with various sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Leftovers are also great for sandwiches.

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Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Beef, Herbs, Meatloaf, Pork, Vegetables

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 6 People

Calories: 329kcal

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Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

• 500 g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 1 small carrot grated
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg free range
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup plus extra for topping
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• salt to taste
• pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• 3 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar optional

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf tin.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, grated carrot, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, dried thyme, salt and pepper.
  500 g ground beef, 1 small onion, 1 small carrot, 2 cloves garlic, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp tomato ketchup, 1 tsp dried thyme, salt, pepper
• Mix until everything is well incorporated but avoid overmixing as this can make the meatloaf tough.
• Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared tray, or press it into a loaf tin.
• In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar (if using). Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  3 tbsp tomato ketchup, 1 tbsp mustard, 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 70°C/160°F). If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminium foil.
• Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes it easier to slice.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

Meatloaf is a hearty dish, so it pairs well with classic comfort food sides. Here are a few ideas:

– Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side for meatloaf. You can also try garlic mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes for something different.

– Roasted Vegetables: Roasting carrots, broccoli, or green beans in olive oil with a sprinkle of salt and pepper can add a nutritious and tasty balance to the meal.

– Gravy or Sauce: Although the meatloaf is often served with just its glaze, a rich gravy or mushroom sauce can add an extra level of indulgence.

– Coleslaw or a Green Salad: If you want something lighter, a fresh coleslaw or green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.

– Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Freshly baked bread or rolls can be used to soak up any extra juices or sauces, making the meal even more filling.

Meatloaf is also great the next day, either reheated or served cold in sandwiches. Just slice it up, add some mustard or a bit of ketchup, and tuck it into some fresh bread for a quick and delicious meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 329kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 364mg | Potassium: 385mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1504IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 3mg