Discover three easy-to-make meatloaf recipes that will elevate your dinner game. These recipes are not only simple but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. From classic to unique twists, these meatloaf recipes are sure to become family favorites.
Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients:
2 large eggs
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 small onion, finely diced
2 lbs ground beef
8 oz package of pre-made stuffing mix (e.g., Stove Top)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs, water, and soy sauce together. Set aside.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and stuffing mix. Use your hands to ensure the mixture is well combined.
Incorporate Egg Mixture: Gradually add the egg mixture to the meat and stuffing, mixing thoroughly.
Form the Loaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in an ungreased loaf pan.
Bake: Place the pan on the center rack of the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is browned.
Drain and Rest: Drain any excess grease and let the meatloaf stand for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Savory Mushroom Meatloaf
Ingredients:
1 onion, chopped
1-2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup cracker crumbs
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon allspice
A sprinkle of curry powder
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 large eggs
2 lbs ground beef
1-2 cans of mushroom soup
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, eggs, and spices. Add the chopped vegetables and cracker crumbs, mixing well.
Bake Initial: Place the mixture in a loaf pan and bake for 10-20 minutes until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Add Mushroom Soup: Pour 1-2 cans of mushroom soup over the meatloaf.
Final Bake: Continue baking for an additional 1.5-2 hours, or until fully cooked.
Ritz Cracker Meatloaf
Ingredients:
1.5 lbs ground beef
1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
2 large eggs, beaten
8 oz Del Monte tomato sauce
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Ingredients: Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs and finely chop the onion.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, beaten eggs, tomato sauce, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Shape and Bake: Grease a glass baking pan with vegetable shortening. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the pan.
Bake: Bake for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Interesting Meatloaf Facts
Popularity: Meatloaf is a staple in American cuisine, with its origins tracing back to the 19th century. It became particularly popular during the Great Depression as a way to stretch inexpensive meat with fillers like breadcrumbs and vegetables.
Variations: There are countless variations of meatloaf around the world. For example, in Germany, a similar dish called "Hackbraten" is often served with boiled eggs inside.
Nutrition: A typical serving of meatloaf (about 4 ounces) contains approximately 250-300 calories, 20 grams of protein, and 15 grams of fat, making it a hearty and filling meal option.
