Description
Classic Barefoot Contessa meatloaf blends rich ground beef with savory herbs and tangy glaze, creating a comforting American dinner classic. Perfect comfort meal promises warmth and satisfaction that brings family around the table.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 ½ pounds ground chuck (81% lean)
- 2 extra-large eggs, beaten
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 3 cups chopped yellow onions (about 3 medium onions)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings and Binding Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ⅓ cup (79 milliliters) canned chicken stock or broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup plain dry bread crumbs (e.g., Progresso)
- ½ cup ketchup (e.g., Heinz)
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking environment by heating the oven to 325°F (163°C), ensuring an even temperature for consistent cooking.
- Create a flavor base by sautéing chopped onions in olive oil over medium-low heat. Incorporate thyme, salt, and pepper, gently stirring until onions become translucent and soft, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Enhance the mixture by removing the pan from heat and blending in Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow the ingredients to meld and cool slightly.
- Combine ground chuck with the prepared onion mixture, bread crumbs, and beaten eggs in a spacious mixing bowl. Use a fork to gently incorporate ingredients, maintaining a light texture and avoiding compaction.
- Transfer the meat mixture onto a parchment-lined sheet pan, carefully shaping it into a uniform rectangular loaf. Distribute ketchup evenly across the surface for added moisture and flavor.
- Position the meatloaf in the preheated oven, placing a pan of hot water underneath to prevent surface cracking. Bake for 1 to 1 1/4 hours, monitoring until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- After removing from the oven, allow the meatloaf to rest briefly, enabling juices to redistribute. Slice and serve warm, presenting a comforting and flavorful main course.
Notes
- Prevent dense texture by mixing ingredients gently with a fork, keeping the mixture light and airy.
- Select ground chuck with 81% lean meat for optimal moisture and rich flavor profile.
- Cool sautéed onion and broth mixture before combining with meat to protect egg proteins from premature cooking.
- Create a uniform rectangular shape to ensure even cooking and structural integrity during baking.
- Utilize parchment paper lining for effortless removal and clean pan release after cooking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 533
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 627mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 124mg