Million Dollar Meatloaf: So Tender, So Delicious! 🥩✨🍽️
1. Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide for making a Million Dollar Meatloaf, regarded as the best meatloaf recipe for its incredible tenderness and flavor. This ultra-tender Million Dollar Meatloaf is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you want a comforting, hearty meal that impresses every palate. In this article, you’ll discover tips, tricks, and step-by-step instructions to craft a meatloaf that truly tastes like a million bucks!
2. Ingredients for the Million Dollar Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Additional ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Best Meatloaf
Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Add the Wet Ingredients
Stir in the eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all components are uniformly incorporated, ensuring a tender and moist meatloaf.
Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to a prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for a rustic look. Spread a generous layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top for a flavorful crust.
Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). For an extra juicy result, you can baste the meatloaf with additional sauce during baking.
Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender, juicy, and flavorful.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Million Dollar Meatloaf
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
5. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Pair your Million Dollar Meatloaf with classic sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider trying our easy weeknight meatball casserole or cheesy garlic chicken wraps for more delicious ideas.
6. FAQs About the Million Dollar Meatloaf
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier version. Keep in mind that these may result in slightly less juicy meatloaf, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like grated zucchini or a splash of broth.
How long does it take to prepare this meatloaf?
The prep time is approximately 15-20 minutes, with an oven cooking time of about 1 hour. Overall, expect around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
What are some variations or add-ins?
You can customize your Million Dollar Meatloaf with chopped bell peppers, shredded cheese, or bacon for extra flavor. For more seasoning tips, check out our recipe collection.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CROSTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures your baking dishes heat evenly and release effortlessly, making cleanup a breeze.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Keep your beverages cool during your hearty meal or prep drinks for a party.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — For making a larger batch or slow-cooked variations of meatloaf or other dishes.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer — Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly and efficiently.
8. Final Tips for Making the Most Delicious Meatloaf
Use fresh ingredients and avoid overmixing the meat. The secret to an ultra-tender Million Dollar Meatloaf is gentle handling and a gooey, flavorful topping. Don’t forget to let it rest before slicing for perfect slices every time!
9. Conclusion
Creating a Million Dollar Meatloaf recipe that is tender, flavorful, and impressive requires just a few quality ingredients and some simple techniques. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, this comfort food masterpiece will surely delight everyone. Remember, the best dinner is one made with love and a splash of sauce!
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Million Dollar Meatloaf: So Tender, So Delicious!
Experience the ultimate in comfort food with our Million Dollar Meatloaf. Renowned for its incredible tenderness, juicy flavor, and savory topping, this classic recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal that impresses. Learn step-by-step techniques to create a meatloaf that truly tastes like a million bucks with our easy-to-follow guide.
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Additional ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Stir in the eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all components are uniformly incorporated, ensuring a tender and moist meatloaf.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for a rustic look. Spread a generous layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top for a flavorful crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Baste with additional sauce during baking if desired for extra flavor.
- Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
- You can add chopped bell peppers, shredded cheese, or bacon for extra flavor variations.
- For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken, but consider adding moisture-enhancing ingredients.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: All Diets
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg