Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe
This Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe not only brings back nostalgic kitchen memories but also introduces a refined touch to an age-old classic.
Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet
- Oven mitts
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Basting brush
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef 85% lean
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup plus extra for glazing
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Warm some olive oil in a skillet set over medium heat, then gently cook the onions and garlic until they become soft and clear.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine the ingredients thoroughly but be careful not to over-stir, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Pour the blend into a loaf pan, shaping it into a uniform loaf.
- Brush the top with a layer of ketchup.
- Place in an oven preheated to the required temperature and bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Allow the meatloaf to sit for 10 minutes after baking to settle the juices before cutting.
Notes
- Do Not Overmix: Keep the mixing to a minimum to ensure the meatloaf remains tender and juicy.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking will enable the juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Check Internal Temperature: Ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for perfect doneness.
- Add a Water Pan: Place a pan of water on the oven rack beneath the meatloaf to add moisture to the oven and prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
- Experiment with Glazes: Apart from ketchup, try glazing your meatloaf with BBQ sauce or a mix of brown sugar and mustard for a tangy twist.