- Great for texture and flavor; use high-quality beef for best results.
- Bread Crumbs
- Helps bind the meatloaf together; use fresh or lightly toasted bread for optimal moisture absorption.
- Egg
- Acts as a natural binder, ensuring your meatloaf stays cohesive.
- Onions (Finely Chopped)
- Adds flavor and sweetness to the meatloaf; finely chopping ensures even distribution.
- Garlic Powder
- A classic ingredient that adds depth of flavor without adding moisture or fat.
- Salt & Pepper
- Essential for seasoning; use fine sea salt for better flavor distribution.
- Ketchup
- Provides a sweet and tangy base flavor, perfect for meatloaf.
- Brown Sugar (Optional)
- Adds sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf. Use light or dark brown sugar based on your preference.
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Enhances umami flavors; use high-quality sauce for best results.
- Soy Sauce
- For an extra boost of flavor, especially when using leaner ground beef.
- Mustard (Yellow)
- Adds a slight tang and enhances overall flavor profile.
- Thyme or Other Herbs
- Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can be used to add aromatic notes; dried herbs work well too.
- Green Onions (Optional)
- Finely chopped green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- **SEO Keywords:**
- Best Meatloaf Ingredients
- Lean Ground Beef
- Bread Crumbs
- Egg
- Fine Chopped Onions
- Garlic Powder
- High-Quality Beef
- Seasoning Tips
- Flavor Enhancers
- Ketchup
- Brown Sugar
- Worcestershire Sauce
Steps
### Best Meatloaf Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to make the best meatloaf ever! Follow these detailed steps to create a succulent, tender meatloaf that's sure to become a family favorite.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (try using whole wheat for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
#### Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Meatloaf pan or baking dish
- Fork
- Spatula
- Aluminum foil
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a meatloaf pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. **Mix the Ingredients:**
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Add the beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, thyme (if using), and shredded carrots to the mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. **Shape the Meatloaf:**
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into your prepared pan or baking dish.
- Use a spatula to press the mixture gently but firmly to form an even loaf shape.
4. **Bake the Meatloaf:**
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 160°F (71°C).
- For a crispy top, tent the loaf with aluminum foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
5. **Let It Rest:**
- Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf.
### Tips for the Best Results:
- Use a leaner cut of ground beef (80% lean) for a more tender texture.
- Adding shredded carrots not only enhances the flavor but also adds a subtle sweetness and moisture.
- Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or paprika to add variety to your meatloaf.
### SEO Optimization Tips:
- Include keywords such as "best meatloaf recipe," "80/20 ground beef," "wholesome ingredients," and "meatloaf pan."
- Use bullet points for easy scanning.
- Incorporate meta descriptions in blog posts or articles to improve search engine visibility.
- Highlight the key steps using bold text for emphasis.
By following these detailed instructions, you can create a delicious meatloaf that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of cooking this classic dish!