Meatloaf is a quintessential comfort food that effortlessly brings a sense of nostalgia to the dinner table. This hearty dish, often associated with family gatherings, boasts a satisfying blend of flavors that meld together beautifully during cooking. Its dense, yet tender texture creates a delightful contrast, making each slice a joy to savor. Beyond its traditional appeal, meatloaf invites creativity, allowing cooks to personalize it with an array of seasonings, sauces, or toppings, transforming it into a signature dish. Whether served with mashed potatoes, a side of vegetables, or in a sandwich the next day, meatloaf remains a versatile and beloved staple that warms both the stomach and the soul.
Easy Meatloaf
Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, renowned for its rich, savory flavor and heartwarming appeal. This versatile dish combines tender meat with a medley of seasonings, creating a satisfying meal that evokes nostalgia and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup dried bread crumbs
- salt and pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp prepared mustard
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to a warm 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), allowing the heat to envelop the space. While it's warming, take a moment to lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring that your meatloaf will slide out effortlessly once it's baked to perfection.
- In a spacious bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped onion, milk, bread crumbs, and egg until well combined, seasoning generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Once thoroughly blended, transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it to fit snugly and ready for baking.
- In a small bowl, blend together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. Once combined, pour this flavorful topping over the meatloaf, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, ensuring every bite is infused with that tangy-sweet glaze.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and allow it to bake until it reaches a perfect doneness, approximately one hour, or until there’s no hint of pink in the center. This slow cooking process will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas, signaling that a delicious meal is on the way.
