Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that combines ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings into a savory, hearty loaf that’s baked to perfection. Traditionally made with ground beef, meatloaf can also include other meats like pork or lamb, making it adaptable to various flavor profiles.
Why is this the best recipe
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of ground beef and lamb or pork creates a rich and hearty flavor, while the tomato paste, mustard, sriracha, and fresh parsley add layers of complexity, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. Moist and Tender Texture: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk ensures that the meatloaf stays moist and tender throughout baking, preventing it from becoming dry or crumbly. Savory and Tangy Glaze: The ketchup, sriracha, honey, and vinegar sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick to the meatloaf, caramelizing beautifully in the oven for a perfect finish. Easy and Customizable: The recipe is straightforward to prepare and can easily be customized by adjusting the spices or adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, making it versatile for different preferences.
Ingredients and substitutes
Ground Beef and Lamb: The combination provides a rich flavor. You can substitute with all ground beef, ground turkey, or pork if preferred. Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatloaf and maintain moisture. Panko, crushed crackers, or rolled oats can be used as substitutes. Milk: Adds moisture to the breadcrumbs. You can use non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or even broth for a dairy-free option. Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Shallots or leeks can be used as alternatives. Garlic Powder: Provides a mild garlic flavor. Fresh minced garlic works as a substitute. Tomato Paste: Adds richness and a concentrated tomato flavor. You can substitute it with ketchup or tomato sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different. Sriracha: Gives a mild heat. For a spicy kick, you can use hot sauce, chili paste, or even cayenne pepper. Mustard Paste: Adds a tangy element. Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard can work as substitutes. Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and herbaceous flavor. You can replace it with cilantro, basil, or dried parsley. Ketchup (for the sauce): The base of the meatloaf glaze. Barbecue sauce or tomato sauce can be used if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Honey (for the sauce): Adds sweetness. You can substitute with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar. Vinegar (for the sauce): Adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness. Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar are good substitutes.
Step-by-step: Perfect Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs. Stir to mix and set aside for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak and soften.
Sauté the Onions: In a skillet, sauté the onion in a bit of oil over medium heat until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb/pork, soaked breadcrumb mixture, sautéed onions, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, parsley, tomato paste, sriracha, and mustard paste. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Shape and Bake: Press the meat mixture into the loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place the loaf pan into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the meatloaf is nearly cooked.
Prepare the Meatloaf Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, sriracha, honey, vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the prepared sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake Again: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is set and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C). Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier. Cut into slices and serve warm.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overmix the Meat: Mix the ingredients until they are combined. Overmixing can make it dense and tough, so handle the mixture gently for a tender result. Use Soaked Breadcrumbs: Let the breadcrumbs fully absorb the milk before combining them with the meat. This step ensures the meatloaf stays moist and soft, even after baking. Press the Mixture Firmly: When shaping the meatloaf in the pan, press it down firmly but not too tightly. This helps the loaf hold its shape during baking while maintaining an airy texture. Let the Meat loaf Rest: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice without falling apart and ensuring every bite is moist.
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Frequently asked questions
Creative ways to serve meatloaf
Classic Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice the meatloaf and serve it between two slices of toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and a spread of your favorite condiments like mayo or mustard. Add cheese for an extra treat. Meatloaf Spaghetti: Crumble leftover meatloaf and mix it into a marinara sauce to serve over spaghetti for a hearty, flavorful twist on traditional meat sauce. Meatloaf Sliders: Cut the meatloaf into small squares and place them on slider buns with pickles, cheese, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce or ketchup for a fun, bite-sized meal.
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