Classic Comfort Food: Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe

Classic Comfort Food: Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re looking for a classic comfort food dish that’s sure to please a crowd, look no further than old fashioned meatloaf. This timeless recipe has been a staple in kitchens for generations, and for good reason. With its savory flavors and hearty texture, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. In this post, we’ll explore the history of meatloaf, share a traditional recipe, and provide some tips for making it your own.

History of Meatloaf

Believe it or not, meatloaf can be traced all the way back to ancient Rome. It was a common dish in medieval Europe, where it was known as “forcemeat” and often included a mix of meat, bread, and spices. In the United States, meatloaf gained popularity during the Great Depression as a way to stretch a small amount of meat into a full meal. During the post-World War II era, it became a staple of American home cooking, and it’s been a classic comfort food ever since.

Traditional Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/2 onion, diced
– 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, green bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
5. Spread the ketchup mixture on top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Tips for Making Meatloaf

– Use a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal for a more flavorful meatloaf.
– Add diced vegetables like carrots, celery, and mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
– Replace the ketchup topping with a more savory glaze, like a balsamic vinegar reduction or a honey mustard sauce.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F.

Conclusion

Old fashioned meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time. With its rich, savory flavors and hearty texture, it’s the ultimate meal for any occasion. Whether you’re following a traditional recipe or putting your own spin on it, meatloaf is sure to please. So why not give it a try and see how it can become a staple in your own kitchen?

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