In a time when kale Caesar salads and turmeric lattes reign supreme, traditional meatloaf may seem old-fashioned and out of touch. It exudes a sense of nostalgia akin to the classic TV show Leave It to Beaver. Surrounded by trendy Brussels sprouts on modern dinner tables, meatloaf feels like the well-meaning yet slightly outdated relative whose jokes are cherished but not exactly cutting-edge. So, when my husband suggested meatloaf for dinner one evening, I hesitated. Lacking a family meatloaf recipe, I turned to Google and was relieved to find a version by none other than Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa. If it was good enough for her, I reasoned, it would be good enough for us.
Garten’s meatloaf recipe stood out for its simplicity, with a short list of ingredients and minimal active cooking time. I already had many of the items on hand, making it an affordable choice. The recipe featured classic meatloaf elements like onions, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup for flavor, along with eggs and breadcrumbs for binding. I opted to use pre-diced onions to save time and decided to include slightly less than the recipe called for, which worked out well.
The preparation involved massaging the ground chuck into a loaf shape on a sheet pan, which some may find off-putting if they dislike handling raw meat. However, the end result made the effort worthwhile. A simple ketchup glaze added a nice finishing touch, and placing a pan of hot water in the oven kept the meatloaf moist and prevented cracking on top.
Garten’s meatloaf turned out moist, flavorful, and comforting—a dish that evokes memories of home-cooked meals. While not the most visually appealing dish, it offers a warm and satisfying experience, perfect for a cozy winter dinner with guests. For those seeking a hearty and nostalgic meal without a lot of fuss, Garten’s meatloaf is a winner.
To make a delicious meatloaf every time, consider using slightly leaner meat to prevent dryness. Sautéing onions before adding them to the mixture adds moisture and flavor. Avoid overmixing the meat, as it can result in a dense texture. Using a sheet pan for baking creates a caramelized exterior, while a loaf pan may lead to a more steamed texture. A simple ketchup glaze is sufficient, but you can customize it with additional ingredients like mustard, brown sugar, or apple cider for a different flavor profile.
Substitute vinegar with barbecue sauce when preparing your meatloaf, if desired. Leaving the meatloaf uncovered during cooking is recommended to achieve a well-textured exterior. Allow the meatloaf to rest prior to serving to ensure clean slices, preventing it from falling apart when cut.
For more meatloaf recipes to expand your culinary repertoire, consider trying out some of the following options:
1. Million Dollar Meatloaf
2. Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
3. Southern Meatloaf
4. Sheet Pan Meatloaf
5. Easy Boarding House Meatloaf
6. Cajun-Style Meatloaf
If Ina Garten’s recipe has reignited your interest in meatloaf, these recipes are versatile and suitable for various occasions. Explore new flavors and techniques to enhance your meatloaf-making skills.
For additional details and recipes, refer to the original article published by Southern Living.
