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Moist Classic Meatloaf Simple and Flavorful Recipe

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- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) - 1 lb ground turkey - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 large eggs, beaten - 1/2 cup milk - 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping) - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - 2 teaspoons dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color) - Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) This mix of ingredients is key for a moist and tasty meatloaf. The ground beef and turkey provide a nice balance of flavor and texture. The 80/20 blend of beef adds fat, which keeps the meatloaf juicy. Turkey keeps the dish lighter and adds more protein. Breadcrumbs act as a binder. They soak up moisture and hold the meat together. Whole wheat gives a slight nutty flavor and extra fiber. Onions and garlic add savory notes. They make your meatloaf smell great while cooking. Eggs and milk help keep the meatloaf moist. They also help bind everything together. The ketchup adds sweetness and a bit of tang. Worcestershire sauce gives depth and complexity to the flavor. Herbs like oregano and thyme add freshness. Salt and pepper are must-haves for seasoning. Parmesan cheese and bell peppers add richness and color. Finally, parsley makes a nice touch when serving. Each ingredient plays a role in making your meatloaf both moist and full of flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan. - In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef and 1 lb ground turkey. Use your hands or a spoon to mix them well. - Add 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 medium chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves to the meat. - Next, include 2 large beaten eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently. - Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is mixed. - Fold in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup diced bell pepper. Make sure they are evenly distributed. - Transfer the meat mixture to your loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. - Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a glaze. - Bake in the oven for 60-75 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). - Once done, take the meatloaf out and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. - Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. To keep your meatloaf moist, choose meat with fat. A blend of 80% lean beef and 20% fat works best. This fat adds flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking. You can also mix in ground turkey for a lighter option. Adding milk and eggs is key for moisture. Milk keeps the meatloaf tender while eggs bind the ingredients. Together, they create a lovely, moist texture that everyone will love. Herbs and spices can transform your meatloaf. I recommend using dried oregano and thyme for a classic flavor. You can also try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for a twist. Experiment with your favorites! Ketchup is a great way to enhance the flavor. It adds a hint of sweetness and a nice glaze on top. Don't forget to spread a little extra ketchup before baking for a delicious finish. For side dishes, mashed potatoes pair perfectly with meatloaf. Roasted vegetables or green beans also make great options. You can serve it with a simple salad for a fresher touch. Garnish your meatloaf with fresh parsley. It adds color and a fresh flavor. To present it nicely, slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter. Drizzle with extra ketchup or a sauce for an appealing look. Pro Tips Mixing Meat: Combine different types of ground meat for a more complex flavor and texture. The beef adds richness, while turkey keeps it lean. Moisture Matters: Don't skip the milk and eggs; they help keep the meatloaf moist and tender. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with ground oats. Resting Time: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, making each slice more flavorful and easier to cut. Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding different herbs or spices to the meat mixture, such as smoked paprika or fresh basil, for an extra flavor twist. {{image_2}} You can switch the beef for other meats. Ground chicken or pork works well. Both options add a different flavor and texture. For a vegan or vegetarian version, use lentils or beans. You can also try plant-based meat substitutes. These choices keep the dish tasty while meeting different diets. Changing breadcrumbs can change the taste. You can use panko or crushed crackers instead. For a fun twist, add chopped veggies like carrots or zucchini. Mixing in some cheese, like cheddar or feta, can also enhance flavor. These swaps keep the meatloaf exciting and fresh. Try using different spices to change the flavor. Italian herbs like basil or rosemary can add a nice touch. For a kick, add some chili powder or cumin. In the fall, use pumpkin or squash for a seasonal twist. These options make your meatloaf unique and flavorful. To store leftover meatloaf, cool it down first. Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. Your meatloaf will stay good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To freeze meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can also slice it before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. In the fridge, meatloaf lasts about 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to 3 months. For the best taste, eat it within this time. If it has an odd smell or color, throw it away. To make your meatloaf less dense, use a mix of meats. I often blend ground beef with ground turkey. This adds moisture and keeps it light. You can also add more milk or eggs to the mix. Try using fresh bread instead of dry breadcrumbs for a softer texture. Yes, you can use leaner meat, but it may dry out. I suggest adding extra moisture with milk or egg. Mixing lean meat with fattier meat helps keep the loaf juicy. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can work well, but keep an eye on the cooking time. If you are gluten-free, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers. Ground oats or almond flour also work well. If you have cornmeal, that can be a good option too. Just ensure the substitute still binds the meat. It takes about 60 to 75 minutes per pound at 350°F (175°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The inside should reach 160°F (70°C). Cooking times may vary based on your oven and the shape of the loaf. Yes, you can add vegetables directly into the meat mixture. Diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini add flavor and moisture. Just chop them finely so they mix well. This also boosts the nutrition of your meatloaf. In this blog post, we explored making a tasty meatloaf with ground beef and turkey. I shared key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for the perfect bake. You also learned about variations, storage methods, and answers to common questions. Meatloaf can be simple and fun to make. Try different flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy your meals with this comforting dish!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s nothing quite like a moist classic meatloaf fresh from the oven. In this article, I’ll share my simple and flavorful recipe that combines ground beef and turkey for a hearty dish everyone will love. From the right ingredients to step-by-step instructions, I promise this meatloaf will be a hit at your dinner table. Ready to impress your family? Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Hearty and Satisfying: This meatloaf combines two types of meat for a rich flavor and texture that comforts the soul.
  2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
  3. Versatile Leftovers: Meatloaf sandwiches or meatloaf stew are just a couple of delicious options for using leftovers.
  4. Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own.

Ingredients

Main Protein Components

– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)

– 1 lb ground turkey

Binder and Flavoring Ingredients

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 large eggs, beaten

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

Seasonings and Garnishes

– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

– 2 teaspoons dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)

– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

This mix of ingredients is key for a moist and tasty meatloaf. The ground beef and turkey provide a nice balance of flavor and texture. The 80/20 blend of beef adds fat, which keeps the meatloaf juicy. Turkey keeps the dish lighter and adds more protein.

Breadcrumbs act as a binder. They soak up moisture and hold the meat together. Whole wheat gives a slight nutty flavor and extra fiber. Onions and garlic add savory notes. They make your meatloaf smell great while cooking.

Eggs and milk help keep the meatloaf moist. They also help bind everything together. The ketchup adds sweetness and a bit of tang. Worcestershire sauce gives depth and complexity to the flavor.

Herbs like oregano and thyme add freshness. Salt and pepper are must-haves for seasoning. Parmesan cheese and bell peppers add richness and color. Finally, parsley makes a nice touch when serving. Each ingredient plays a role in making your meatloaf both moist and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan.

– In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef and 1 lb ground turkey. Use your hands or a spoon to mix them well.

Mixing Ingredients

– Add 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 medium chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves to the meat.

– Next, include 2 large beaten eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently.

– Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is mixed.

– Fold in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup diced bell pepper. Make sure they are evenly distributed.

Baking and Serving

– Transfer the meat mixture to your loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

– Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a glaze.

– Bake in the oven for 60-75 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

– Once done, take the meatloaf out and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

– Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Moisture in Meatloaf

To keep your meatloaf moist, choose meat with fat. A blend of 80% lean beef and 20% fat works best. This fat adds flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking. You can also mix in ground turkey for a lighter option.

Adding milk and eggs is key for moisture. Milk keeps the meatloaf tender while eggs bind the ingredients. Together, they create a lovely, moist texture that everyone will love.

Enhancing Flavor

Herbs and spices can transform your meatloaf. I recommend using dried oregano and thyme for a classic flavor. You can also try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for a twist. Experiment with your favorites!

Ketchup is a great way to enhance the flavor. It adds a hint of sweetness and a nice glaze on top. Don’t forget to spread a little extra ketchup before baking for a delicious finish.

Serving Suggestions

For side dishes, mashed potatoes pair perfectly with meatloaf. Roasted vegetables or green beans also make great options. You can serve it with a simple salad for a fresher touch.

Garnish your meatloaf with fresh parsley. It adds color and a fresh flavor. To present it nicely, slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter. Drizzle with extra ketchup or a sauce for an appealing look.

Pro Tips

  1. Mixing Meat: Combine different types of ground meat for a more complex flavor and texture. The beef adds richness, while turkey keeps it lean.
  2. Moisture Matters: Don’t skip the milk and eggs; they help keep the meatloaf moist and tender. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with ground oats.
  3. Resting Time: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, making each slice more flavorful and easier to cut.
  4. Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding different herbs or spices to the meat mixture, such as smoked paprika or fresh basil, for an extra flavor twist.

Variations

Alternative Meat Options

You can switch the beef for other meats. Ground chicken or pork works well. Both options add a different flavor and texture. For a vegan or vegetarian version, use lentils or beans. You can also try plant-based meat substitutes. These choices keep the dish tasty while meeting different diets.

Ingredient Swaps

Changing breadcrumbs can change the taste. You can use panko or crushed crackers instead. For a fun twist, add chopped veggies like carrots or zucchini. Mixing in some cheese, like cheddar or feta, can also enhance flavor. These swaps keep the meatloaf exciting and fresh.

Flavoring Variations

Try using different spices to change the flavor. Italian herbs like basil or rosemary can add a nice touch. For a kick, add some chili powder or cumin. In the fall, use pumpkin or squash for a seasonal twist. These options make your meatloaf unique and flavorful.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Storage

To store leftover meatloaf, cool it down first. Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. Your meatloaf will stay good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can also slice it before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, meatloaf lasts about 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to 3 months. For the best taste, eat it within this time. If it has an odd smell or color, throw it away.

FAQs

How can I make my meatloaf less dense?

To make your meatloaf less dense, use a mix of meats. I often blend ground beef with ground turkey. This adds moisture and keeps it light. You can also add more milk or eggs to the mix. Try using fresh bread instead of dry breadcrumbs for a softer texture.

Can I use leaner meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leaner meat, but it may dry out. I suggest adding extra moisture with milk or egg. Mixing lean meat with fattier meat helps keep the loaf juicy. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can work well, but keep an eye on the cooking time.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs if I’m gluten-free?

If you are gluten-free, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers. Ground oats or almond flour also work well. If you have cornmeal, that can be a good option too. Just ensure the substitute still binds the meat.

How long does it take to cook a meatloaf per pound?

It takes about 60 to 75 minutes per pound at 350°F (175°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The inside should reach 160°F (70°C). Cooking times may vary based on your oven and the shape of the loaf.

Can I add vegetables directly into the meat mixture?

Yes, you can add vegetables directly into the meat mixture. Diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini add flavor and moisture. Just chop them finely so they mix well. This also boosts the nutrition of your meatloaf.

In this blog post, we explored making a tasty meatloaf with ground beef and turkey. I shared key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for the perfect bake. You also learned about variations, storage methods, and answers to common questions.

Meatloaf can be simple and fun to make. Try different flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy your meals with this comforting dis

- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) - 1 lb ground turkey - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 large eggs, beaten - 1/2 cup milk - 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping) - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - 2 teaspoons dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color) - Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) This mix of ingredients is key for a moist and tasty meatloaf. The ground beef and turkey provide a nice balance of flavor and texture. The 80/20 blend of beef adds fat, which keeps the meatloaf juicy. Turkey keeps the dish lighter and adds more protein. Breadcrumbs act as a binder. They soak up moisture and hold the meat together. Whole wheat gives a slight nutty flavor and extra fiber. Onions and garlic add savory notes. They make your meatloaf smell great while cooking. Eggs and milk help keep the meatloaf moist. They also help bind everything together. The ketchup adds sweetness and a bit of tang. Worcestershire sauce gives depth and complexity to the flavor. Herbs like oregano and thyme add freshness. Salt and pepper are must-haves for seasoning. Parmesan cheese and bell peppers add richness and color. Finally, parsley makes a nice touch when serving. Each ingredient plays a role in making your meatloaf both moist and full of flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan. - In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef and 1 lb ground turkey. Use your hands or a spoon to mix them well. - Add 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 medium chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves to the meat. - Next, include 2 large beaten eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently. - Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is mixed. - Fold in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup diced bell pepper. Make sure they are evenly distributed. - Transfer the meat mixture to your loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. - Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a glaze. - Bake in the oven for 60-75 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). - Once done, take the meatloaf out and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. - Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. To keep your meatloaf moist, choose meat with fat. A blend of 80% lean beef and 20% fat works best. This fat adds flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking. You can also mix in ground turkey for a lighter option. Adding milk and eggs is key for moisture. Milk keeps the meatloaf tender while eggs bind the ingredients. Together, they create a lovely, moist texture that everyone will love. Herbs and spices can transform your meatloaf. I recommend using dried oregano and thyme for a classic flavor. You can also try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for a twist. Experiment with your favorites! Ketchup is a great way to enhance the flavor. It adds a hint of sweetness and a nice glaze on top. Don't forget to spread a little extra ketchup before baking for a delicious finish. For side dishes, mashed potatoes pair perfectly with meatloaf. Roasted vegetables or green beans also make great options. You can serve it with a simple salad for a fresher touch. Garnish your meatloaf with fresh parsley. It adds color and a fresh flavor. To present it nicely, slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter. Drizzle with extra ketchup or a sauce for an appealing look. Pro Tips Mixing Meat: Combine different types of ground meat for a more complex flavor and texture. The beef adds richness, while turkey keeps it lean. Moisture Matters: Don't skip the milk and eggs; they help keep the meatloaf moist and tender. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with ground oats. Resting Time: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, making each slice more flavorful and easier to cut. Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding different herbs or spices to the meat mixture, such as smoked paprika or fresh basil, for an extra flavor twist. {{image_2}} You can switch the beef for other meats. Ground chicken or pork works well. Both options add a different flavor and texture. For a vegan or vegetarian version, use lentils or beans. You can also try plant-based meat substitutes. These choices keep the dish tasty while meeting different diets. Changing breadcrumbs can change the taste. You can use panko or crushed crackers instead. For a fun twist, add chopped veggies like carrots or zucchini. Mixing in some cheese, like cheddar or feta, can also enhance flavor. These swaps keep the meatloaf exciting and fresh. Try using different spices to change the flavor. Italian herbs like basil or rosemary can add a nice touch. For a kick, add some chili powder or cumin. In the fall, use pumpkin or squash for a seasonal twist. These options make your meatloaf unique and flavorful. To store leftover meatloaf, cool it down first. Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. Your meatloaf will stay good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To freeze meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can also slice it before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. In the fridge, meatloaf lasts about 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to 3 months. For the best taste, eat it within this time. If it has an odd smell or color, throw it away. To make your meatloaf less dense, use a mix of meats. I often blend ground beef with ground turkey. This adds moisture and keeps it light. You can also add more milk or eggs to the mix. Try using fresh bread instead of dry breadcrumbs for a softer texture. Yes, you can use leaner meat, but it may dry out. I suggest adding extra moisture with milk or egg. Mixing lean meat with fattier meat helps keep the loaf juicy. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can work well, but keep an eye on the cooking time. If you are gluten-free, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers. Ground oats or almond flour also work well. If you have cornmeal, that can be a good option too. Just ensure the substitute still binds the meat. It takes about 60 to 75 minutes per pound at 350°F (175°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The inside should reach 160°F (70°C). Cooking times may vary based on your oven and the shape of the loaf. Yes, you can add vegetables directly into the meat mixture. Diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini add flavor and moisture. Just chop them finely so they mix well. This also boosts the nutrition of your meatloaf. In this blog post, we explored making a tasty meatloaf with ground beef and turkey. I shared key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for the perfect bake. You also learned about variations, storage methods, and answers to common questions. Meatloaf can be simple and fun to make. Try different flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy your meals with this comforting dish!

Ultimate Comfort Meatloaf

A hearty and delicious meatloaf made with a blend of ground beef and turkey, packed with flavor and topped with a ketchup glaze.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 2 milk
  • 1 4 ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 2 grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 2 diced bell pepper (any color)
  • optional Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground turkey. Mix them together using your hands or a spoon until they are well combined.
  • Add the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and diced bell pepper, ensuring even distribution.
  • Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top to create a glaze.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for better texture.
Keyword beef, comfort food, meatloaf, turkey

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