Best Meatloaf Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in kitchens around the world for generations. This homestyle dish is typically made by combining ground meat with various seasonings, binders, and sometimes vegetables, then shaping it into a loaf and baking until golden brown. While meatloaf is often associated with nostalgia and hearty home-cooked meals, it also offers several nutritional benefits when prepared with wholesome ingredients.
Nutritional Benefits of Meatloaf:
- Protein-Rich: Meatloaf is primarily made from ground meat, which is a rich source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall health. Including protein-rich foods like meatloaf in your diet can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on the ingredients used, meatloaf can provide a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. For example, meats like beef or turkey are good sources of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, while vegetables like onions, garlic, and carrots contribute vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants.
- Healthy Fats: Adding ingredients like eggs, olive oil, or ground flaxseed to meatloaf can increase its healthy fat content. These fats are important for brain function, hormone production, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Choosing leaner cuts of meat or incorporating plant-based fats can help keep meatloaf nutritious while still adding flavor and moisture.
- Fiber and Nutrients from Vegetables: Many meatloaf recipes include vegetables such as onions, garlic, carrots, or bell peppers, which not only add flavor and texture but also boost the nutritional content. Vegetables are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making meatloaf a well-rounded meal option.
- Versatility and Customization: One of the great things about meatloaf is its versatility. You can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer beef, turkey, pork, or a combination of meats, and whether you like it plain and simple or packed with veggies and herbs, there’s a meatloaf recipe out there for everyone.
Best Meatloaf Recipe
Best Meatloaf Recipe
Learn how to make one of the best comfort foods enjoyed all over the world. This recipe is meant to put you through the steps required to make the best tastnig meatloaf.
Equipment
- 1 small roasting pan
- measuring cups and/or spoons
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and pork
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs beaten
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until well combined.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly and smoothing the top with the back of a spoon.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown on top. The internal temperature should register at least 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve slices of meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a green salad.
- Enjoy this classic meatloaf recipe as a comforting and satisfying meal that's sure to please the whole family!
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