How to Make a Tender & Juicy Meatloaf For Two: A Step-by-Step Guide
Guide or Summary：Meatloaf Recipe for Two: A Delightful Yet Simple DishIngredientsInstructionsMeatloaf Recipe for Two: A Delightful Yet Simple DishWhen it co……
Guide or Summary：
Meatloaf Recipe for Two: A Delightful Yet Simple Dish
When it comes to cooking for two, sometimes the challenge lies not just in the preparation but also in the portion control. One dish that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and satisfaction is the classic meatloaf. This recipe, tailored specifically for a couple, offers a tender and juicy result that's sure to impress. Let's dive into the details of how to make a delectable meatloaf for two.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped celery
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup of ketchup
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. **Prepare the Breading**: While the oven is heating up, take your breadcrumbs and place them in a shallow dish. This will be used to coat the meatloaf mixture later on.
3. **Mix the Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not too wet. If it's too dry, you can add a little more ketchup or egg.
4. **Shape the Meatloaf**: Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to shape it into a loaf. Try to make it as uniform as possible, but don't worry too much about perfection. Aim for a length of about 8 inches, a width of 4 inches, and a height of 2 inches.
5. **Coat the Meatloaf**: Lightly coat the outside of the meatloaf with olive oil. Then, roll the meatloaf in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the meatloaf to ensure they stick well.
6. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Place the meatloaf in a baking dish that's large enough to hold it without overcrowding. You can add a little extra breadcrumb mixture on top of the meatloaf for added texture.
7. **Bake the Meatloaf**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C). For the last 10 minutes of cooking, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with any remaining ketchup for a nice glaze.
8. **Rest and Serve**: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it even more tender and flavorful. Once it's rested, slice it into portions and serve it with your favorite sides.
Making a meatloaf for two is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a practical way to enjoy a hearty meal without leftovers. By following this simple recipe, you'll be able to create a tender and juicy meatloaf that's sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a great place to start and a delicious dish to end on. Enjoy your meal!