Imagine a comforting, hearty meal that comes together with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor - welcome to the most delicious meatloaf dinner you'll ever make! This one-pan wonder is about to revolutionize your weeknight cooking, combining classic American comfort food with a smart, efficient cooking approach that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned home chef, this meatloaf recipe is your ticket to an effortless and mouthwatering dinner that promises to become an instant family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine
- 5 lbs of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of ketchup, and 1 egg. Use your hands or a fork to mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure to mix the seasoning in evenly for the best flavor.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top and sides to ensure even cooking.
- In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn). Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Arrange the mixed vegetables around the meatloaf in the pan or on the baking sheet. This allows the vegetables to cook in the juices from the meatloaf, enhancing their flavor.
- Drizzle an additional tablespoon of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a nice glaze and extra flavor.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender.
- Slice the meatloaf into servings and serve alongside the roasted mixed vegetables. Enjoy your one-pan meatloaf dinner!
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ground beef with a fat content around 80/20 for the juiciest results.
- Don't overmix the meat mixture - this can make your meatloaf tough and dense.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after cooking to help it retain its juices and make slicing easier.
- For extra flavor, try adding finely diced onions or garlic to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Feel free to swap out mixed vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and make excellent sandwiches the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 263kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
