Ina Garten’s Meatloaf: A Classic, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed Comfort Food
Growing up, Sunday dinners were a sacred tradition in my family. The aroma of a hearty meatloaf wafting through the house was a signal that something special was about to happen. My mother would often turn to Ina Garten’s recipe, and it quickly became a staple in our home. This dish is more than just food; it’s a warm embrace, a reminder of family gatherings, and a celebration of comfort.
What Makes It Special
This meatloaf recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground beef, fresh herbs, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Moist and Juicy: The addition of sautéed onions and breadcrumbs ensures that every slice is tender and juicy, avoiding the dry meatloaf pitfalls.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a comforting dish.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Let’s Get Cooking
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a skillet, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they are soft and translucent.
-
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions and garlic, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
-
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread ketchup on top for a delicious glaze.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
-
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
My Pro Tips
-
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the meat mixture.
-
If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
What to Serve With It
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Classic coleslaw
- A glass of red wine
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative, though it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
The Heart of the Dish
This meatloaf recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories created around the dinner table. Each bite takes me back to those cherished family moments, filled with laughter and love. I hope this dish brings you the same warmth and joy it has brought to my family.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different spices or add your favorite ingredients. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and tweaks!
Ina Garten’s Meatloaf: A Classic, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup for glaze
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Classic coleslaw
- A glass of red wine
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they are soft and translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions and garlic, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread ketchup on top for a delicious glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Leave a Reply