Prepare to transform your dinner table with a recipe that's been passed down through generations - Grandma's legendary Meat Loaf! This isn't just another boring recipe; it's a culinary time machine that will transport you straight to the comfort of home-cooked meals. With a perfect blend of juicy ground beef, savory seasonings, and a secret technique that guarantees moisture in every single bite, this meatloaf will have your family begging for seconds (and thirds)!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly throughout.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground beef with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a spatula to mix them together until they are well combined.
- Add 1/2 cup of milk to the meat mixture. This will help keep the meatloaf moist during cooking. Stir until the milk is fully incorporated.
- Next, add 1/4 cup of ketchup, which will add flavor and moisture to the meatloaf. Mix thoroughly.
- Chop 1 onion finely and add it to the mixture. The onion will provide a delicious flavor and texture to the meatloaf.
- Crack 1 egg into the bowl. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold all the ingredients together. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Season the mixture with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of pepper. This will enhance the overall flavor of your meatloaf. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf form. You can also shape it by hand and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if you prefer a crustier exterior.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and a nice glaze. This is optional but recommended for a classic touch.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, 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 allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
- After resting, slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve warm. It pairs well with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal.
Tips
- Always use fresh ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20 blend) for the most flavorful and tender result.
- Don't overmix the ingredients - this can make your meatloaf tough. Gently combine until just mixed.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some minced garlic to the mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F - this guarantees it's cooked safely without becoming dry.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after cooking to help it retain its juices and make slicing easier.
- If you want a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
