Meatloaf

Description

This delicious and easy-to-make meatloaf is perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients, it's a guaranteed hit whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a party.

General Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
Extra Tips for Meatloaf Enthusiasts

3	lbs	Ground Beef
½	cup	Onion, finely diced
⅓	cup	Bell Pepper, finely diced
⅔	cup	Squash &/or Zucchini, finely diced
2	whole	Eggs
1	cup	Italian Breadcrumbs
2	tsp	Black Pepper
3	tsp	Garlic Powder
1	tsp	Salt
1½	oz	White Wine

Topping (Glaze):

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the onion, bell pepper, squash, and/or zucchini until the onions become translucent.
Mix ground beef, sautéed vegetables, eggs, breadcrumbs, spices, and white wine in a large bowl until just combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan.
Prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to the desired consistency.
Coat the meatloaf with the glaze and bake for 30 minutes.
Reapply the glaze every 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 155°F. Aim for a final temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked meatloaf.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Choose Your Meat: Use a mix of ground beef and pork (or veal) for flavor and moisture. Avoid using overly lean meat.
Mix Carefully: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
Keep It Moist: Add finely diced vegetables and liquids like milk or broth to keep the meatloaf moist. Eggs also help bind everything together.
Use Breadcrumbs: Mix breadcrumbs (or oats/crushed crackers) soaked in milk as a binder.
Season Well: Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or oregano.
Shape Properly: Shape the meatloaf evenly for even cooking. You can use a loaf pan or shape it freeform on a baking sheet.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to keep it juicy.
Add Flavor with Glaze: Top with a glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard before baking.
Check Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Customize: Add cheese, herbs, or cooked rice for extra flavor and texture.
Leftovers: Meatloaf makes great sandwiches and can be frozen for later.

Muffin Tin Meatloaf: Make individual-sized meatloafs using a muffin tin for quicker cooking and easy portioning.
Stuffed Meatloaf: Create a pocket in the center of the meatloaf and stuff it with your favorite ingredients like cheese, mushrooms, or vegetables.
Sauce Variety: Try different sauces or glazes like BBQ sauce, balsamic reduction, or even a cranberry glaze for a unique twist.