Meatloaf – A Comforting American Classic

Meatloaf – A Comforting American Classic

Meatloaf has long been a symbol of American home cooking, praised for its simplicity, heartiness, and nostalgic appeal. This beloved dish typically consists of ground beef blended with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then baked into a loaf and often topped with a tangy ketchup-based glaze. Originating during the Great Depression as a way to make meat go further, meatloaf evolved into a family staple that continues to be passed down through generations. Whether served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or simply on its own, it remains a go-to comfort meal for Home Cook worldwide.

Thanks to its flexibility and ease of preparation, meatloaf is one of the most searched food recipes on DuckDuckgo and frequently shared across platforms like cookpad. Home cooks enjoy customizing it by swapping meats, adding vegetables, or experimenting with spices. Whether you prefer a traditional version or a modern twist with turkey or plant-based ingredients, meatloaf’s enduring popularity lies in its warmth, satisfaction, and adaptability.

Classic American Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the glaze:

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Mix Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—don’t overmix.
3. Form the Loaf:
   Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the tray or in the loaf pan.
4. Add the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the loaf.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve:
   Slice and serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

FAQs about Meatloaf

Q: Can I use other types of meat?
A: Yes, ground turkey, pork, or a beef-pork blend are great alternatives. Many variations can be found on cookpad, especially from Home Cook worldwide.

Q: How do I keep meatloaf from drying out?
A: Use enough moisture—like milk and eggs—and don’t overcook. Resting after baking also helps retain juices.

Q: Can I prepare meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can mix and shape it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.

Q: What are some good add-ins?
A: Diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, or shredded cheese can enhance flavor and texture.

Q: Where can I explore more creative meatloaf food recipes?
A: DuckDuckGo is a great search tool for discovering global styles, and cookpad has hundreds of user-submitted meatloaf recipes from different cuisines around the world.

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