Ina Garten’s Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Ina Garten’s meatloaf is the perfect blend of savory and satisfying. Known for her simple and approachable recipes, Ina brings her signature touch to the classic meatloaf with an easy-to-follow method and ingredients that bring out the best in this traditional comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping a meal to serve at a gathering, this meatloaf recipe is sure to impress. The beauty of Ina’s version lies in its simplicity and the perfect balance of flavors, which allows the beef to shine. The meatloaf is juicy, tender, and packed with savory seasoning, topped with a rich glaze that adds an extra layer of flavor. The result is a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. This recipe proves that sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones. Ideal for busy weeknights or making ahead, this meatloaf will be a go-to favorite for years to come.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to make a delicious meatloaf.
2. Quick and Easy: The recipe comes together in no time, and the hands-on prep is minimal.
3. Juicy and Flavorful: The seasoning and the combination of ground beef and a sweet glaze create a perfectly tender meatloaf.
4. Great for Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be used in sandwiches or enjoyed the next day.
5. Perfect for Busy Nights: The recipe is simple enough to make during a busy week but still special enough for family or guests.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• Ground beef
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning

For the Glaze

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Worcestershire sauce

Variations

• Meat Substitute: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese: For a cheesy twist, add shredded cheese to the meatloaf mixture.
• Vegan: Use plant-based meat alternatives and replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture to make a vegan meatloaf.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture.
3. Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and form it into a loaf shape.
4. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
5. Glaze the Meatloaf: Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
6. Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
7. Finish the Glaze: During the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and continue baking until fully cooked.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatloaf just enough to combine the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a tough texture.
• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a moist meatloaf, use ground beef with at least 20% fat content.
• Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to 160°F for perfect doneness.
• Add Veggies: Finely chop carrots or celery and add them to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow the juices to redistribute and make slicing easier.

How to Serve

Serve this meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside creamy mac and cheese or baked potatoes. The savory meatloaf paired with a sweet glaze creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices or bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat the meatloaf in the oven. If using a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture while reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground beef.
2. How do I make my meatloaf moist? Adding milk and not overmixing the ingredients helps keep the meatloaf moist.
3. How do I know when my meatloaf is done? The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
4. Can I cook meatloaf in a loaf pan? Yes, you can cook it in a loaf pan. Just increase the oven temperature to 375°F.
5. Can I add cheese to the meatloaf? Yes, shredded cheese can be added to the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.
6. Why is my meatloaf falling apart? It could be because the meatloaf mixture wasn’t mixed well or it was overcooked. Ensure the meatloaf is rested after baking.
7. Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Just shape it, wrap it well, and bake it from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
8. What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry? To prevent dryness, be sure to use enough moisture like milk and eggs, and don’t overcook the meatloaf.
9. Can I double the recipe? Yes, doubling the recipe is easy. Just ensure you have enough space on your baking sheet or use two separate pans.
10. How can I make the glaze spicier? You can add a bit of hot sauce or chili powder to the glaze for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s meatloaf is a classic recipe that combines simplicity with great flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious, tender meatloaf with a rich, sweet glaze. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this easy recipe will surely become a favorite.

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