There’s something profoundly comforting about a good meatloaf. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, a taste of home that never fails to satisfy. I’ve spent years perfecting the art of meatloaf, tweaking and testing until I landed on a version that I dare say could rival any meatloaf out there. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the secrets to making the Joy of Cooking Meatloaf recipe, a dish that’s not only hearty and delicious but also incredibly easy to master.
Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the heart of our recipe, let’s make sure your kitchen is equipped with the necessary tools. The Joy of Cooking Meatloaf requires a few basic pieces of equipment that you likely already have:
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (Halal) | 2 pounds |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Bread crumbs | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Dried parsley | 1 tbsp |
Did you know? The humble meatloaf has its origins in the fifth century, but it became a staple in American households during the Great Depression, as a tasty way to stretch meat resources.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, and bread crumbs.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overmix as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Note: Handling the mixture with care is key to a tender meatloaf.
Step 2 – Shape and Season
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a firm loaf.
- In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
- Spread the ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf to glaze it.
Warning: Always wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 3 – Bake to Perfection
- After heating the oven, put the loaf pan in it and bake for 1 hour.
- The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when done.
- Take 10 minutes to let the meatloaf cool down before cutting it. This break helps the juices move around again.
Note: Resting the meatloaf makes it easier to slice and enhances its flavor.
Additional Tips
- For a juicier meatloaf, mix in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the wet ingredients.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze can give your meatloaf a delightful smoky flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Joy of Cooking Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides. Here are a few to consider:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- A crisp garden salad
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 495 kcal |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 34g |
Approximation: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Dietary Information
This Joy of Cooking Meatloaf recipe is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet—simply substitute the bread crumbs with your favorite gluten-free alternative.
FAQs about Joy of Cooking Meatloaf
How can I make my meatloaf moister?
Add an extra egg or a splash of milk to the mixture to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
Which meats make the best meatloaf?
A mix of ground beef and ground lamb can provide a rich flavor, but using all beef is just as delicious.
Can I prepare meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble your meatloaf, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best way to store leftover meatloaf?
Keep leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can meatloaf be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze cooked or uncooked meatloaf. To avoid freezer burn, just make sure it’s wrapped up tight.
How can I make meatloaf warm again without making it dry?
Reheat slices in the oven at a low temperature, covered with foil, to retain moisture.
Are there any creative ways to use leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches—try it on a crusty roll with some mayo and lettuce.
Conclusion
Joy of Cooking Meatloaf isn’t just about following a recipe—it’s about creating a meal that brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit.
I’d love to hear how your meatloaf turns out, so don’t hesitate to leave comments, questions, or feedback below. Happy cooking!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Chicken Sinatra Recipe
- Frontier Scallops Recipe
- Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles Recipe
- Chamorro Empanada Recipe: A Culinary Delight from Guam
- Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Triple Delight Chinese Food Recipe
Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Ground beef Halal
- 1 large Onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 cup Bread crumbs
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup Ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dried parsley
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, and bread crumbs.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overmix as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
- Note: Handling the mixture with care is key to a tender meatloaf.
Step 2 – Shape and Season
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a firm loaf.
- In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
- Spread the ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf to glaze it.
- Warning: Always wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 3 – Bake to Perfection
- After heating the oven, put the loaf pan in it and bake for 1 hour.
- The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when done.
- Take 10 minutes to let the meatloaf cool down before cutting it. This break helps the juices move around again.
- Note: Resting the meatloaf makes it easier to slice and enhances its flavor.
Notes
- For a juicier meatloaf, mix in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the wet ingredients.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze can give your meatloaf a delightful smoky flavor.
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