Soulful Meatloaf

Soulful Meatloaf: A Comforting ClassicThis Soulful Meatloaf recipe is the ultimate comfort food, with a perfect balance of juicy, savory flavors and a tender texture. It’s a hearty, homey dish that’s sure to bring warmth and nostalgia to any table. With a blend of ground beef, seasonings, and a tangy glaze, this meatloaf is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and juiciness)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh or panko for a lighter texture)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup (plus more for glazing)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme (or Italian seasoning), Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup.
• Mix everything together until evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased loaf pan.

2. Prepare the Glaze:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar until smooth and well combined.
• Spread about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, using a spatula to evenly coat the surface.

3. Bake the Meatloaf:

• Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf for a shiny, flavorful finish.

4. Rest and Serve:

• Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making it more tender.
• Slice into thick pieces and serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of your choice.

Tips:

• Meat Mixture: For added richness, you can combine ground beef with ground pork or turkey. This makes the meatloaf a little lighter while still keeping it juicy.
• Vegetable Add-ins: For extra flavor, you can sauté some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms and mix them into the meat mixture. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well.
• Freezing: Meatloaf can be made ahead and frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

Soulful Meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings people together with its warm, savory flavors and comforting textures. Enjoy!