Description
Momma’s classic meatloaf brings comfort from Midwestern kitchens, blending ground beef, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings. Hearty flavors meld together, making it perfect for family dinners where memories warm the heart.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large egg
- 16 oz (454 g) ground beef
- 3 slices bread (torn into small pieces)
- 6 fl oz (180 ml) milk
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 4 fl oz (120 ml) finely chopped onion
- ½ tbsp (7.5 ml) onion powder
- 1 pinch (2.5 g) salt
- 1 pinch (2.5 g) dry ground mustard
- 1 dash (1 g) black pepper
- 1 sprinkle (0.6 g) garlic powder
- 1 dash (1 g) hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Preparation: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and optimal heat circulation.
- Mixing Mastery: In a large bowl, blend ground beef, milk, egg, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, onion, salt, dry mustard, black pepper, hot sauce, and garlic powder until the mixture forms a cohesive, well-integrated texture.
- Shaping and Glazing: Mold the seasoned meat mixture into a compact loaf, positioning it centrally in a 9×5 inch loaf pan or on a rimmed baking sheet. Generously spread ketchup across the surface to create a tangy, caramelized exterior.
- Roasting Process: Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven and roast for 60-75 minutes, using a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for safe and thorough cooking.
- Resting and Serving: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-7 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute. Slice into generous portions and serve immediately while maintaining peak warmth and flavor.
Notes
- Prevent Dry Meatloaf: Mix ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can create tough, dense texture.
- Bread Crumb Secret: Soak bread in milk before mixing to add moisture and create a more tender, soft meatloaf.
- Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee food safety and perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Resting Technique: Let the meatloaf rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice remains juicy and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg