Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's both comforting and intriguingly delicious? Meet the Dill Pickle Meat Loaf—a delightful twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to surprise and satisfy your taste buds! Packed with the tangy crunch of dill pickles and the savory goodness of ground beef, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s a conversation starter. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this meat loaf is a must-try that promises to leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece in just over an hour!
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 dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped dill pickles, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, and beaten egg. Mix ingredients thoroughly using clean hands or a wooden spoon until well incorporated.
- Add salt, black pepper, and ketchup to the meat mixture. Gently fold these ingredients into the meat, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth, rounded top.
- Optional: Spread an additional thin layer of ketchup on top of the meat loaf for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove meat loaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender texture.
- Slice the meat loaf into 1-inch thick portions and serve hot with your choice of side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh dill pickles and high-quality ground beef. The quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final taste of your meat loaf.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense meat loaf, so be gentle!
- Add Flavor: Consider adding some minced garlic or your favorite herbs to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the savory profile.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meat loaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking is crucial. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Perfect Side Dishes: Serve your Dill Pickle Meat Loaf with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement the tangy flavors. A fresh salad can also add a refreshing contrast.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, try making a meat loaf sandwich with a slice of bread, some mustard, and more dill pickles for a tasty lunch option!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
