Meatloaf

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Meatloaf is a classic dish that has been loved by families for generations. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for any time of the week. Meatloaf is often associated with home-cooked meals and brings a sense of nostalgia for many. With a mix of meats and delicious ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy any appetite.

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Making meatloaf is a great choice because it’s simple and can feed a crowd. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover bread and is highly customizable. This dish allows you to involve the whole family in the cooking process, turning it into a fun activity. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic for sandwiches or as part of a new meal the next day.

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How to make Meatloaf

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the glaze ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, mustard) and spread it over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

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How to serve Meatloaf

Meatloaf is best served hot, sliced, and often accompanied by mashed potatoes and vegetables. You can also serve it with your choice of sauces or gravies. For a fun twist, serve it in a sandwich with some fresh bread.

How to store Meatloaf

To store leftover meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to label the container with the date.

Tips to make Meatloaf

1. Always mix the ingredients gently to keep the meatloaf from becoming too dense.
2. Use a mix of ground meats for added flavor and moisture.
3. Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the taste.
4. For a spicy kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.

Variation

You can easily turn meatloaf into a mini version by making meatballs. Just shape small portions of the meat mixture into balls and bake them. They can be served with toothpicks for easy eating.

FAQs

1. Can I use only ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use just ground beef if you prefer, but mixing in pork adds flavor and moisture.

2. How long should I bake meatloaf?
Bake the meatloaf for about an hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

3. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach can be mixed in for added nutrition.

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