Ina Garten’s Easy Meatloaf

Ina Garten’s Easy Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort dish, combining juicy ground beef with a perfect balance of seasonings and a tangy glaze. The glaze adds a sweet and savory finish, elevating this classic meal. This meatloaf is incredibly versatile, perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a special dinner, this recipe will ensure your meal is a hit. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80-85% lean)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup bread crumbs

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• ⅓ cup milk

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• ¾ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp mustard

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet or a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, chopped onion, eggs, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined, but avoid overmixing to prevent a dense meatloaf.

3. Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. If using a loaf pan, ensure the mixture is packed evenly.

4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze. Stir until well combined.

5. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf.

6. Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist meatloaf.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings

Ina Garten’s Easy Meatloaf: A Classic Recipe with a Modern Twist

When it comes to classic American comfort food, few dishes evoke the same sense of warmth and nostalgia as meatloaf. However, Ina Garten’s take on the traditional meatloaf recipe is nothing short of perfection. Known for her approachable yet refined style, Ina Garten has created a version of meatloaf that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity, flavor, and comfort. This easy meatloaf recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your home and is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

The Origins of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has long been a beloved dish in many American households. While its exact origins are somewhat unclear, the dish has evolved over centuries. Its roots can be traced back to European recipes for ground meat dishes, such as the German “frikadellen” or the French “pain de viande.” However, it was during the early 20th century in the United States that meatloaf became a mainstay in family kitchens. The affordability of ground meat, combined with its versatility and ability to be stretched to feed a large family, made meatloaf the go-to comfort food for many.

Throughout the years, the dish has been reinvented in countless ways, from adding vegetables to experimenting with different meats and glazes. Ina Garten’s meatloaf recipe, with its combination of simple ingredients and a tangy glaze, is a modern take on the classic, with all the heartiness and flavor we love.

Why Ina Garten’s Meatloaf is the Best

Ina Garten’s Easy Meatloaf recipe is loved for its ease of preparation and the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe guarantees great results with minimal effort. Here’s why Ina’s meatloaf stands out:

1. Simplicity and Accessibility

One of the main reasons why this meatloaf recipe is so popular is because it is straightforward and uses ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. With just a few basic items like ground beef, garlic, onions, and breadcrumbs, Ina creates a meatloaf that delivers big flavor. The addition of Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning enhances the depth of taste without overwhelming the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

2. Juicy and Tender Texture

The key to a perfect meatloaf is ensuring that it remains juicy and tender, and Ina Garten has nailed this aspect of the recipe. By using ground beef that is 80-85% lean, the meatloaf maintains a rich texture without becoming too greasy. Additionally, the milk and breadcrumbs help to retain moisture, preventing the meatloaf from becoming dry or tough.

3. The Perfect Glaze

The glaze is what truly sets this meatloaf apart. Made with ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, this tangy glaze provides the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It adds a glossy finish to the meatloaf and enhances the flavors in each bite. Ina’s glaze is simple to prepare and adds a delightful contrast to the savory meatloaf.

4. Customization Options

While this recipe is perfect as is, Ina Garten’s meatloaf is highly adaptable, allowing for plenty of customization based on your personal preferences. If you want a leaner version, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or pork. You can also add finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

5. Versatility in Pairings

Another reason why this meatloaf is so beloved is its versatility when it comes to side dishes. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, the meatloaf pairs well with just about anything. The rich, savory flavor complements a wide variety of side dishes, making it the perfect option for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even holiday gatherings.

Health Benefits of Meatloaf

While meatloaf is often seen as a comforting, indulgent dish, there are ways to make it a bit healthier without compromising flavor. By using lean ground beef (80-85% lean), you can reduce the fat content while still keeping the meatloaf juicy and tender. Additionally, swapping out some of the beef for ground turkey or pork can provide a leaner option, without losing that savory flavor.

Adding vegetables to the meatloaf mixture is another great way to boost its nutritional value. Vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish, making it a more balanced meal. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can substitute breadcrumbs with ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs, making this dish suitable for those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet.

How to Serve Ina Garten’s Meatloaf

Ina Garten’s meatloaf is the ultimate comfort meal, but it’s also incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Here are some classic and creative ways to serve it:

• Mashed Potatoes: A traditional pairing that never goes out of style. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the savory meatloaf beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, and roasted Brussels sprouts are all excellent sides that bring both flavor and color to the plate.
• Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
• Macaroni and Cheese: For a heartier meal, pair the meatloaf with a side of creamy mac and cheese.
• Baked Potatoes: If you want to go all out, baked potatoes are another classic side that pairs perfectly with meatloaf.

Tips for Making the Perfect Meatloaf

To ensure that your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, keep the following tips in mind:

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the ingredients just enough to combine them is key to avoiding a tough meatloaf. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so be gentle when handling the mixture.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice and ensuring it stays moist.
• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with 80-85% lean meat for the best flavor and moisture. Too lean a cut can result in a dry meatloaf.
• Customize the Glaze: The glaze can be adjusted to suit your taste. You can add a little honey for sweetness, a dash of soy sauce for umami, or even a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re planning to make this meatloaf in advance, it’s easy to store and reheat. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, cover the meatloaf with foil when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Easy Meatloaf recipe is a true classic that brings together all the elements of comfort food: rich flavor, juicy texture, and a tangy glaze that makes each bite irresistible. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday meals. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this meatloaf will impress family and friends alike with its savory goodness. By following a few simple tips, you’ll have a tender, flavorful meatloaf every time, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.