In the vast landscape of comfort food, few dishes evoke as much nostalgia and warmth as meatloaf. This humble creation—often dismissed as a mere weeknight staple—carries with it a rich tapestry of cultural significance, family traditions, and even quirky personal stories. From bustling kitchens where generations have gathered to share hearty meals to the innovative twists chefs are putting on this classic dish today, meatloaf is more than just ground meat baked in a loaf shape; it’s a testament to resilience and creativity in home cooking.
Imagine walking into a home where the aroma of savory spices mingles with sweet undertones of ketchup glaze wafting through the air—a sensory invitation that beckons you closer. Whether it’s Grandma’s secret recipe passed down through decades or a contemporary culinary experiment made with unexpected ingredients like quinoa or lentils, meatloaf captures our collective memory while remaining ever-evolving. Join us as we slice into the history, variations, and enduring appeal of this quintessential dish that continues to bring people together at the dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!