why make this recipe
Meatloaf is a classic dish that many people love. It is hearty, comforting, and can feed a whole family. Making meatloaf is an easy and straightforward process. Plus, it allows you to use ingredients you likely already have at home. Meatloaf also gives you the chance to enjoy delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
how to make Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large onion, grated
- 1 kg ground beef, preferably not lean
- 2 eggs
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled or 2 tsp beef powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (lightly packed)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. Oil or spray a loaf tin to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of tomato ketchup, 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to make the glaze. Set this aside.
- In a large bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs and grate the onion over it. Mix them together so the breadcrumbs soak up the moisture from the onion.
- Add the ground beef, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup of tomato ketchup, parsley (if using), thyme, crumbled bouillon cubes (or beef powder), and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to mix everything well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and smooth out any creases. Place the loaf in the prepared loaf tin and brush half of the glaze over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Take it out and brush with the remaining glaze. If there is excess fat, remove it carefully.
- Bake for another 30 minutes, then remove from the oven. Let it stand for 10 minutes before removing it from the tin and cutting into thick slices.
how to serve Meatloaf
Meatloaf is delicious when served hot, with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it cold in a sandwich or on its own for lunch or dinner the next day.
how to store Meatloaf
To store meatloaf, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it by wrapping it properly and storing it in an airtight container. It can remain in the freezer for up to 3 months.
tips to make Meatloaf
- For extra flavor, try adding different herbs and spices like oregano or basil.
- If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Ensure not to overmix the meatloaf to keep it tender. A gentle mix is best!
variation
You can customize your meatloaf by mixing in vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots. For a cheesier version, try adding shredded cheese to the mixture before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but the texture and flavor will be different. You may need to adjust cooking times.
2. What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or oats if you need a substitute.
3. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 70C/160F to be safely cooked.
Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large onion, grated
- 1 kg ground beef, preferably not lean
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional) Can be omitted if not available
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 cubes beef bouillon, crumbled or 2 tsp beef powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar, lightly packed
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. Oil or spray a loaf tin to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of tomato ketchup, 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to make the glaze. Set this aside.
- In a large bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs and grate the onion over it. Mix them together so the breadcrumbs soak up the moisture from the onion.
- Add the ground beef, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup of tomato ketchup, parsley (if using), thyme, crumbled bouillon cubes (or beef powder), and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to mix everything well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and smooth out any creases. Place the loaf in the prepared loaf tin and brush half of the glaze over the top.
Cooking
- Bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Take it out and brush with the remaining glaze. If there is excess fat, remove it carefully.
- Bake for another 30 minutes, then remove from the oven. Let it stand for 10 minutes before removing it from the tin and cutting into thick slices.