Scrumptious Meat Loaf

Scrumptious Meat Loaf Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 2 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many for its hearty and satisfying flavors. This Scrumptious Meat Loaf recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household with its delicious blend of ground beef, vegetables, and spices.

History

Meatloaf has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades, with variations of the recipe dating back to the 19th century. It is believed to have originated from European meat dishes that were brought over by immigrants to the United States.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) extra-lean ground beef
0.5 cup tomato paste
0.25 cup onion
0.25 cup green bell pepper
0.25 cup red bell pepper
1 cup fresh tomatoes, blanched and chopped
0.5 tsp low sodium mustard
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.5 tsp ground red chile pepper
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 stalks scallions (green onions), chopped
0.5 tsp ground ginger
0.13 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp grated orange peel (zest)
0.5 tsp crushed thyme
0.25 cup fine dry bread crumbs

How to prepare

Mix all the ingredients together.
Place the mixture in a 1 lb (454 g) loaf pan, preferably with a drip rack, and bake it covered at 350°F (177°C) for 50 minutes.
After 50 minutes, uncover the pan and continue baking for an additional 12 minutes.

Variations

Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Mix in some shredded cheese for a cheesy twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the meatloaf.

- Using extra-lean ground beef will help reduce the fat content of the dish.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Scrumptious Meat Loaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatloaf covered for the first part of the cooking time helps to keep it moist, while uncovering it towards the end allows the top to brown and caramelize.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the meatloaf with fresh herbs or a drizzle of gravy for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Scrumptious Meat Loaf pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

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 Scrumptious Meat Loaf contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Scrumptious Meat Loaf contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Scrumptious Meat Loaf contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this Scrumptious Meat Loaf contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This meatloaf recipe is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the bread crumbs. It may also contain allergens from the mustard and garlic.

Summary

This Scrumptious Meat Loaf is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Scrumptious Meat Loaf recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. With its blend of flavors and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It takes me back to a time when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from anyone willing to share their knowledge with me. I had always been drawn to the kitchen, watching my mother and grandmother whip up delicious meals with ease. But it wasn't until I met Mrs. Jenkins, a kind and generous neighbor, that I truly began to understand the magic of cooking.

Mrs. Jenkins was a wonderful cook, known throughout the neighborhood for her mouth-watering dishes. One day, as I watched her prepare dinner through her kitchen window, she caught sight of me and beckoned me over. I timidly stepped inside her cozy kitchen, the aroma of spices and herbs filling the air.

"Would you like to learn how to make my famous meat loaf, my dear?" she asked with a warm smile.

I nodded eagerly, my eyes wide with excitement. Mrs. Jenkins handed me a worn cookbook and began to guide me through the recipe, explaining each step with patience and care. As we worked side by side, I felt a sense of joy and fulfillment that I had never experienced before. Cooking had always been a way to nourish the body, but now I understood that it could also nourish the soul.

The secret to Mrs. Jenkins' scrumptious meat loaf, she told me, was in the blend of herbs and spices. She showed me how to mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and garlic, adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. As the meat loaf baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma, Mrs. Jenkins shared stories of her own culinary adventures, passing down her knowledge and wisdom to me with each anecdote.

After that day, Mrs. Jenkins became my mentor and friend, teaching me the art of cooking with love and passion. I would spend hours in her kitchen, soaking up every bit of wisdom she had to offer. And as I grew older, I began to experiment with the recipe for scrumptious meat loaf, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own.

Over the years, I collected recipes from various places and people, each one adding a unique flavor to my culinary repertoire. But the recipe for scrumptious meat loaf remained a constant favorite, a reminder of where it all began. And as I stand in my own kitchen now, surrounded by the comforting scent of herbs and spices, I can't help but feel grateful for the lessons learned from Mrs. Jenkins all those years ago.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a hearty and comforting meal, look no further than my scrumptious meat loaf recipe. Made with love and passed down through generations, it's sure to warm your heart and soul with each delicious bite. And as you savor the flavors of this timeless dish, remember the joy and fulfillment that cooking can bring – a gift that Mrs. Jenkins passed down to me, and one that I am proud to share with you. Bon appétit!