Name: Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 12 ounce Ground Beef Chuck; 12 ounce Ground Beef Round; 1 ½ cups Finely Chopped Onions; 1 cup Quick Cooking Rolled Oats; ⅔ cup Heinz Ketchup; 3 Lightly Beaten Large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Ground Thyme; 1 teaspoon Salt; ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper

Table of Contents

If you’re wondering how to turn ground beef into a culinary masterpiece, you’re in the right place. This Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe will make you a kitchen superstar.

What is the Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf?

The Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe is a traditional American dish made from ground meat, often a mixture of beef and other meats like pork or veal, though variations exist. The meat is typically combined with ingredients like onions, breadcrumbs or oats, seasonings, and binders such as eggs. These components are mixed together to create a loaf-shaped mixture, which is then baked in the oven.

Why Meatloaf is a Classic Comfort Food?

Meatloaf is considered a classic comfort food due to its simplicity, versatility, affordability, and the deep emotional connections people have with it. Many associate meatloaf with fond memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals, making it a comforting and nostalgic dish.

Ingredients Used In Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe

Ground Beef Chuck= 12 ounce
Ground Beef Round= 12 ounce
Finely Chopped Onions= 1 ½ cups
Quick Cooking Rolled Oats= 1 cup
Heinz Ketchup= ⅔ cup
Lightly Beaten Large Eggs= 3
Ground Thyme= 1 teaspoon
Salt= 1 teaspoon
Ground Black Pepper= ½ teaspoon

Step By Step Method for Making the Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf

Step 1

The oven must be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). The oven rack should be positioned in the middle of the oven.

Step 2

Prepare your meatloaf baking dish by lightly greasing a 9″ x 5″ loaf pan.

Step 3

You should mix all the ingredients with your hands in a big bowl.

Step 4

Try not to overmix everything, but make sure it is well combined.

Step 5

Fill your greased loaf pan with your meat mixture.

Step 6

It should be shaped like a loaf with the top mounding slightly.

Step 7

You can catch any drips while baking by placing your loaf pan on a baking sheet.

Step 8

You need to preheat the oven before you put the meatloaf in.

Step 9

60 to 75 minutes is the recommended baking time. When the meatloaf feels firm to the touch and pulls away from the pan sides, it has finished cooking.

Step 10

In addition, you can check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer by checking that it reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).

Step 11

Remove any excess fat from the pan after your meatloaf has finished baking.

Step 12

When you cut the meatloaf, let it rest for about 15 minutes so that it holds together better.

Step 13

Let your favorite sauces enhance the joy of cooking meatloaf!

Variations on the Classic

Variations on the classic Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe offer creative and flavorful twists on this beloved comfort food.

Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter and leaner version of meatloaf.

Vegetarian or Vegan Meatloaf: Create a meatless version using ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, tofu, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) combined with seasonings and binders.

Mini Meatloaf Muffins: Make individual-sized meatloaf portions in a muffin tin for quicker cooking and easy portion control.

Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a surprise element by stuffing the meatloaf with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and texture.

Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap your meatloaf with strips of bacon before baking for an indulgent, savory twist on the Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe.

Meatloaf Sliders: Turn meatloaf into bite-sized sliders by shaping smaller patties and serving them on slider buns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some popular side dishes to serve with meatloaf?

Common side dishes for meatloaf include mashed potatoes, gravy, roasted vegetables, green beans, coleslaw, and dinner rolls.

Can I freeze Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf?

Yes, meatloaf can be frozen for later use. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container, and label it with the date. Depending on how frozen it is, it can last for 2 to 3 months.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?

Make sure the internal temperature of the meat is correct by using a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (71°C). Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center when sliced.

In Closing

We hope that this guide to meatloaf has been informative and inspiring, helping you understand why it’s such a beloved classic comfort food and providing you with the knowledge and ideas to create delicious variations in your own kitchen. Whether you’re seeking a simple and satisfying family dinner, a nostalgic taste of the past, or a culinary adventure through unique flavors, meatloaf offers endless possibilities.

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