Meatloaf I

Meatloaf I Recipe - Classic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many for its hearty and savory flavors. This recipe combines ground beef and pork sausage with a flavorful mixture of onions, celery, green pepper, and seasonings to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Meatloaf has been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years, with variations of the recipe dating back to the 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the German dish "Faschierter Braten," which is a mixture of ground meat, onions, and breadcrumbs formed into a loaf shape and baked.

Ingredients

4 tbsp butter
1 onion
1 stalk celery
1 chopped green pepper
1 tbsp meat seasoning
1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
0.5 cup evaporated milk
0.5 cup ketchup
1.5 lb (680 g) hamburger
0.5 lb (227 g) pork sausage
2 eggs
2 cups bread crumbs
2 tbsp minced garlic

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the onion, celery, meat seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce.
Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pan, until the mixture starts sticking excessively, about 6 minutes.
Stir in the milk and ketchup.
Continue cooking for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
Remove from the heat and allow to cool at room temperature.
Place the beef and pork sausage in a large mixing bowl.
Add the eggs, cooked mixture (from the saucepan), and bread crumbs.
Mix by hand, being careful not to overmix.
Overmixing will make the meat mushy.
Blend the ingredients only until necessary to distribute them evenly.
Place the mixture in an ungreased 9x13" baking dish.
Shape it into a loaf, making sure not to touch the sides.
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
Raise the heat to 400°F (204°C) and continue cooking until done, approximately 35 minutes longer.

Variations

Add diced mushrooms or carrots to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
Use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef and pork sausage for a lighter version of the dish.
Top the meatloaf with a glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for a sweet and tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can result in a mushy texture.

- Shape the meatloaf into a loaf shape, making sure not to touch the sides of the baking dish.

- Allow the cooked mixture from the saucepan to cool before adding it to the meat mixture.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serve this meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a side of gravy for a classic comfort food meal.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the meatloaf uncovered at a lower temperature initially to allow it to cook through, then raise the heat to brown the top and create a crispy crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef and pork sausage.

- Substitute almond milk for evaporated milk for a dairy-free option.

- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more flavorful dish.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs and a drizzle of gravy for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this meatloaf with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this meatloaf recipe contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this meatloaf recipe contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this meatloaf recipe contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this meatloaf recipe 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 (butter, evaporated milk) and gluten (bread crumbs).

Summary

This meatloaf recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

This meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and full of savory flavors. With a mixture of ground beef, pork sausage, and a flavorful blend of vegetables and seasonings, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a satisfying and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Meatloaf I. It was a cool autumn evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret had always been a wonderful cook, and she had a way of making even the simplest of dishes taste like a gourmet meal. As we chatted and sipped on warm tea, Margaret began preparing dinner, and I couldn't help but be intrigued by the delicious aroma that filled the air.

Margaret was busy mixing together a combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and spices. She explained to me that she was making her famous meatloaf recipe, a dish that her own grandmother had passed down to her many years ago. As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I knew that I had to learn how to make this meatloaf for myself.

After dinner, Margaret graciously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly jotted down every ingredient and step in my notebook. Over the years, I have made this meatloaf countless times, tweaking and perfecting the recipe to make it my own. It has become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that my family and friends always request whenever they come over for a meal.

The secret to this meatloaf, I have found, lies in the combination of ingredients and the method of preparation. The ground beef must be seasoned just right, with a perfect balance of salt, pepper, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. The breadcrumbs add a light texture to the meatloaf, while the onions and spices infuse it with a rich, savory flavor.

To make the meatloaf, I start by sautéing the onions until they are soft and translucent. I then mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices in a large bowl, making sure to incorporate everything evenly. Once the mixture is well combined, I shape it into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.

Before popping the meatloaf into the oven, I always make sure to top it with a generous amount of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meatloaf, creating a delicious crust that caramelizes as it bakes.

As the meatloaf bakes in the oven, the aroma that fills my kitchen is irresistible. I can't help but peek through the oven door, watching as the meatloaf slowly transforms into a golden-brown masterpiece. When it is finally done, I take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thick, juicy pieces.

The first bite of this meatloaf always brings me back to that evening in Margaret's kitchen, where I first learned the recipe that has since become a family favorite. The flavors are comforting and familiar, the texture is tender and moist, and the memories of cooking and sharing this dish with loved ones are priceless.

So here I am, years later, still making this meatloaf recipe that holds a special place in my heart. It may seem like just a simple dish, but to me, it represents a connection to my past, a tradition that I will continue to pass down to future generations. And for that, I am truly grateful.