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Ina Garten’s Meatloaf

Ina Garten's Meatloaf: Moist, Flavorful Comfort Made Easy

Discover Ina Garten’s Meatloaf, a moist and flavorful dish that makes for easy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Canola oil is a good substitute if needed.
  • 3 cups Yellow Onions, finely chopped Shallots or green onions work well for a milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme, chopped Use dried thyme (⅓ of the amount) if fresh isn't available.
  • 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt Sea salt is a suitable alternative if kosher is unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground White pepper can be used for a milder taste.
  • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can be a substitute for a similar taste.
  • cup Chicken Stock or Broth, canned Use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste Tomato sauce can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 ½ pounds Ground Chuck, 81% lean Ground turkey or pork can be alternatives; adjust seasoning to taste.
  • ½ cup Plain Dry Bread Crumbs Crushed crackers or oatmeal make good gluten-free substitutes.
  • 2 extra-large Eggs, beaten Flaxseeds mixed with water can replace eggs for a vegan option.
  • ½ cup Ketchup Consider using barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Sheet Pan
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cups of finely chopped yellow onions, 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until the onions are translucent.
  3. Add 3 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, ⅓ cup of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste to the cooled onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes on low heat, then cool slightly before adding to the ground meat.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ pounds of ground chuck, the cooled vegetable mixture, ½ cup of plain dry bread crumbs, and 2 beaten extra-large eggs, mixing gently.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture onto the lined sheet pan, shape it into a loaf, and spread ½ cup of ketchup over the top.
  6. Bake for 1 to 1 ¼ hours, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Cover with foil if it browns too quickly.
  7. Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, follow tips such as avoiding over-mixing and resting the meatloaf before slicing to ensure moisture retention.

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