Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience? Our Country Style Meat Loaf is not just a recipe - it's a nostalgic journey back to grandma's kitchen, packed with hearty flavors and guaranteed to make everyone at the table ask for more. This classic American dish combines simple ingredients with foolproof cooking techniques to create a meal that's both satisfying and memorable.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, and egg. Mix ingredients thoroughly using clean hands or a wooden spoon until well incorporated.
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the meat mixture. Gently fold these seasonings into the meat, ensuring even distribution without overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it down to create an even surface. Shape the meat into a compact loaf shape.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf, creating a thin, uniform layer that will caramelize during baking and add a tangy flavor.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Slice the meatloaf into 1-inch thick portions and serve hot with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Always use fresh, high-quality ground beef with some fat content (80/20 blend) to ensure moisture and flavor.
- Don't overmix the meat mixture - this can lead to a tough, dense texture. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for food safety.
- Let the meat loaf rest after cooking. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute, making each slice incredibly tender and juicy.
- For extra flavor, experiment with adding grated cheese, diced bell peppers, or fresh herbs to your meat mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the meat loaf for 2-3 minutes after baking to caramelize the ketchup glaze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
