Are you ready to unlock the secret to the most mouthwatering, soul-warming meat loaf that has been passed down through generations? This isn't just another ordinary recipe – this is a culinary time machine that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen, where every bite tells a story of love, tradition, and pure comfort food magic. Get ready to transform a simple ground beef dish into a family favorite that will have everyone gathered around the dinner table, eagerly waiting for their slice of home-cooked heaven!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup ketchup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it evenly and smoothing the top with the back of a spoon or spatula.
- Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meat loaf, creating a thin, even layer that will caramelize during baking.
- 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 from the oven and let the meat loaf rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat loaf more moist and easier to slice.
- Carefully drain any excess fat, then slice the meat loaf into thick portions and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make your meat loaf tough and dense.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meat loaf reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety and optimal juiciness.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the meat loaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Ketchup Topping: For extra flavor, mix the ketchup with a touch of brown sugar or add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Choose the Right Meat: For the most tender meat loaf, use ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20 blend) to keep the dish moist.
- Breadcrumb Trick: If you want an extra tender meat loaf, soak your breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes before mixing to add moisture and softness.Pro Chef Secret: For an even more flavorful meat loaf, consider adding finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
