Homemade Meatloaf
Homemade Meatloaf Recipe from USA - Delicious and Flavorful
Introduction
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many for its hearty and satisfying flavors. This homemade meatloaf recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
History
Meatloaf has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, with variations of the dish dating back to the 5th century. It gained popularity during the Great Depression as a way to stretch ground meat and make a filling meal for families on a budget.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, onion, a few shakes of salt and pepper, crackers or croutons, and milk.
- Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined and the mixture is stiff and sticks together in a ball. If it doesn't stick together, add more crackers or croutons.
- Transfer the mixture to an 8x10 pan with sides and shape it into a log.
- Spread a fair amount of ketchup on top of the meat to add flavor and keep it moist.
- Bake for 1 hour, then check to make sure the meat is cooked through. If not, place it back in the oven for another 30 minutes.
Variations
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add in diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to customize the flavor of the meatloaf.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can result in a tough and dense texture.
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep it moist.
- Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite seasonings and add-ins, such as garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or diced vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this homemade meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a side of gravy for a classic comfort food meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking is the preferred method for cooking meatloaf, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to cook evenly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use breadcrumbs or oats in place of croutons for a different texture.
- Substitute Worcestershire sauce for ketchup for a tangier flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This can help save time on busy weeknights.
Presentation Ideas
Slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs and a drizzle of ketchup for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this homemade meatloaf with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this homemade meatloaf contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of this homemade meatloaf contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of this homemade meatloaf contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of this homemade meatloaf contains approximately 30 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This meatloaf recipe is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (milk) and gluten (croutons).
Summary
This homemade meatloaf is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
This homemade meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner. With simple ingredients and delicious flavors, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a rainy day in October, the kind of day that makes you want to cozy up in the kitchen and bake something warm and comforting. I was rummaging through an old recipe box that my mother had passed down to me, filled with yellowed index cards and stained scraps of paper. As I sifted through the memories of meals gone by, I came across a faded piece of paper with the words "Homemade Meatloaf" scrawled across the top.
My heart skipped a beat as I read through the ingredients and instructions. It was a simple recipe, calling for ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and a few other basic pantry staples. But there was something about the way it was written, the care and attention to detail that went into each step, that spoke to me. I knew I had to make it.
I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl helping my mother in the kitchen. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new recipes and flavors. I learned so much from her, absorbing her knowledge and passion for food like a sponge. And now, as I stood in my own kitchen, holding this precious piece of paper in my hands, I felt her presence guiding me.
I gathered the ingredients and set to work, chopping onions, mixing the meatloaf mixture, shaping it into a loaf, and placing it in the oven to bake. As the savory aroma filled the kitchen, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. This was more than just a recipe; it was a connection to my past, a link to the generations of strong, loving women who had come before me.
As the meatloaf baked, I thought back to all the meals I had shared with my family over the years. The laughter around the dinner table, the conversations that flowed as freely as the wine, the sense of belonging and love that filled our home. Food had always been more than just sustenance for us; it was a way of expressing our love and nurturing our souls.
When the meatloaf was finally done, I took it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. The meat was tender and juicy, the flavors perfectly balanced. I couldn't help but smile as I took my first bite, savoring the familiar taste of home.
As I enjoyed my meal, I thought about all the other recipes in that old recipe box, each one a treasure trove of memories and stories waiting to be discovered. I knew that I would spend many more rainy days in the kitchen, exploring the culinary legacy that had been passed down to me.
And as I sat there, surrounded by the comforting smells and tastes of my childhood, I knew that I would always be grateful for the gift of cooking, the gift of connection, the gift of family. And I knew that I would never stop learning, never stop growing, never stop sharing my love of food with those around me.
Because in the end, it's not just about the recipes we make; it's about the love we put into them, the memories we create, the stories we share. And that, my friends, is the true essence of cooking.