Meatloaf is a classic dish made by combining ground meat, often beef or a mixture of meats, with other ingredients such as breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. The mixture is shaped into a loaf and baked. Here’s a basic recipe for a traditional meatloaf:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
- If desired, spread a layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and a glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Some people add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the mix, and you can experiment with different seasonings to create a meatloaf that suits your preferences.
