Meat Loaf

Introduction

History

Meatloaf has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, with variations of the dish appearing in cookbooks as far back as the late 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the German dish "Faschierter Braten," which is a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings baked into a loaf shape.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the dish.

- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort food meal.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the meatloaf in the oven for a moist and tender texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use breadcrumbs instead of torn bread slices.

- Substitute beef broth for the V-8 juice.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the meatloaf with fresh parsley or a drizzle of gravy for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the meatloaf with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover meatloaf 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

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Eggs

Summary

This meatloaf recipe is a good source of protein and iron, but it is also high in fat and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

This meatloaf recipe is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Enjoy the hearty flavors and satisfying textures of this timeless favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for meatloaf. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. Martha was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to trying out her new recipes.

On this particular day, Martha had just taken a savory-smelling meatloaf out of the oven. The aroma of the seasoned ground beef, onions, and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water. I couldn't resist asking her for the recipe.

Martha smiled and handed me a tattered old cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations. She explained that the recipe for meatloaf was a treasured family secret, and she was honored to share it with me.

As I carefully copied down the ingredients and instructions, Martha shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that her grandmother had learned how to make meatloaf from her own mother, who had immigrated to America from Ireland. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, with each family member adding their own twist to it.

I was intrigued by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. As soon as I returned home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen.

The first step was to mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasonings. I remembered Martha's advice to handle the meat mixture gently, so as not to overwork it and make the meatloaf tough.

I shaped the mixture into a loaf and placed it in a baking dish, then topped it with a tangy ketchup glaze. The meatloaf went into the oven to bake, filling my house with the mouthwatering scent of savory goodness.

As I waited for the meatloaf to cook, I thought about all the delicious meals I had shared with friends and family over the years. Cooking had always been a way for me to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories.

When the meatloaf was finally done, I took it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into it. The meatloaf was tender and juicy, with a perfect balance of flavors that made my taste buds sing.

I served slices of the meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans, just like Martha had done. My family devoured the meal, praising the meatloaf as one of the best they had ever tasted.

From that day on, meatloaf became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for Sunday dinners, potlucks, and special occasions, always thinking of Martha and the special bond we shared over our love of good food.

As the years passed, I continued to tweak the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations. Sometimes I would add a little extra garlic or swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers. Each time I made meatloaf, it brought back fond memories of Martha and the day I learned how to make it.

Now, whenever I make meatloaf, I think of all the love and history that goes into each slice. It's a dish that not only fills bellies but warms hearts, reminding me of the power of shared recipes and the joy of passing down traditions from one generation to the next. And for that, I am forever grateful to Martha and her family secret meatloaf recipe.

Categories

| Egg Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Meatloaf Recipes | Onion Soup Mix Recipes | Tahitian Meat Dishes | Tahitian Recipes | V-8 Juice Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients