Ina Garten's Meatloaf Recipe: Simple & Delicious

by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a classic comfort food recipe that's super easy to make and tastes absolutely amazing. We're talking about Ina Garten's meatloaf. If you've ever watched Ina on the Food Network, you know she's all about simple ingredients and foolproof methods. This meatloaf recipe is no exception. It's straightforward, delicious, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Why Ina Garten's Meatloaf is a Must-Try

Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, has a knack for taking simple recipes and elevating them to something truly special. Her meatloaf recipe is a perfect example of this. It's not just your average meatloaf; it's moist, flavorful, and has a delicious glaze that sets it apart. One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. No need for any fancy or hard-to-find items! Plus, the recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. Whether you're looking to impress your family or just want a reliable, tasty meal, Ina's meatloaf is a winner. The combination of ground beef and ground pork gives the meatloaf a rich, savory flavor, while the sautéed vegetables add depth and moisture. The simple yet flavorful glaze made with ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce provides the perfect finishing touch, creating a caramelized crust that's simply irresistible. And let's not forget the simplicity of the preparation – it's all about mixing, shaping, and baking. No complicated techniques or fussy steps, just pure, honest cooking that delivers incredible results every time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather all the ingredients. The beauty of Ina's recipes is their simplicity, and this meatloaf is no different. You'll need:

  • Ground beef: The foundation of our meatloaf. Opt for a blend that's not too lean, as some fat is essential for flavor and moisture. Around 80/20 is ideal.
  • Ground pork: This adds a wonderful richness and depth of flavor to the meatloaf. Don't skip it!
  • Yellow onion: Finely chopped, this will add a savory sweetness to the meatloaf. Sautéing it beforehand mellows its flavor.
  • Celery: Another aromatic vegetable that adds a subtle, earthy note. Make sure to chop it finely so it blends seamlessly into the meatloaf.
  • Carrot: Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture. Like the onion and celery, chop it finely.
  • Garlic: Because every good recipe needs garlic! Minced finely, it adds a pungent kick.
  • Fresh thyme leaves: These add a lovely herbal aroma. If you don't have fresh thyme, you can use dried, but fresh is always better.
  • Eggs: These act as a binder, holding the meatloaf together.
  • Ketchup: Adds moisture and tanginess to the meatloaf. Plus, it's a key ingredient in the glaze.
  • Worcestershire sauce: This adds a savory, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatloaf.
  • Plain dried breadcrumbs: These help absorb excess moisture and give the meatloaf a nice texture.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Ketchup, Brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce: Combine to create a sweet, tangy glaze.
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Don't be shy!

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go before you start mixing. This will make the process much smoother and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create Ina Garten's delicious meatloaf:

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and thyme leaves and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, sautéed vegetables, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet. Gently shape it into a loaf, about 9 x 5 inches. Make sure the loaf is evenly shaped so it cooks evenly.
  4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  5. Glaze the Meatloaf: Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake the Meatloaf: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  7. Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

To ensure your Ina Garten meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, here are a few extra tips:

  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix the ingredients gently until just combined.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the meatloaf and cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Let it Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
  • Customize the Glaze: Feel free to adjust the glaze to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or a splash of vinegar for extra tanginess.
  • Add More Vegetables: For an even more nutritious meatloaf, consider adding other finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Ina Garten's meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that never fails. For an extra touch, try Ina's garlic mashed potatoes.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and complements the savory meatloaf.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
  • Mac and Cheese: Another comfort food favorite that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. Try Ina's creamy mac and cheese recipe.
  • Green Beans: A simple side dish that adds a pop of color and freshness to the meal. Sauté them with some garlic and olive oil for extra flavor.

Make Ahead Instructions

Want to get ahead on your meal prep? You can easily make Ina Garten's meatloaf ahead of time. Simply prepare the meatloaf mixture, shape it into a loaf, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, glaze the meatloaf, and bake as directed. You can also bake the meatloaf ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatloaf in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Ina Garten's meatloaf recipe is a simple, delicious, and foolproof way to enjoy a classic comfort food. With its moist texture, flavorful glaze, and easy-to-follow instructions, it's sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let me know what you think. Happy cooking, guys! And remember, "store-bought is fine," but homemade is always better!

Enjoy this fantastic recipe, and don't forget to share your culinary creations with friends and family. Bon appétit!