Gourmet Meatloaf Recipe

Hannah Arendt

2 min read

·

18-11-2024

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Meatloaf. The very word conjures images of comforting, home-style dinners. But this recipe elevates the classic dish, transforming it from humble weeknight fare to a gourmet experience worthy of a special occasion. Forget the dry, dense loaf of your childhood; this recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful masterpiece.

Beyond the Basic: Ingredients for Success

The key to a truly gourmet meatloaf lies in the quality of ingredients and the attention to detail. We're ditching the processed meats and embracing fresh, flavorful components.

For the Meat Mixture:

• 1.5 lbs ground chuck (80/20 blend recommended)
• 0.5 lbs ground pork
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Crafting the Perfect Loaf: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe emphasizes technique for optimal results. Follow these steps carefully for a moist, flavorful meatloaf.

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Ensure all other ingredients are measured and ready to go. This prevents interruptions during the meat mixing process.

2. Combine the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chuck, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough loaf.

3. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). Shape it into a uniform loaf, ensuring an even top surface for even cooking.

4. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.

5. Bake the Meatloaf: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf for 50-60 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C). During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the meatloaf generously with the glaze.

6. Rest and Serve: 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 tender and flavorful loaf.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate the Experience

This gourmet meatloaf is delicious on its own, but consider these serving suggestions to elevate the dining experience:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor of mashed potatoes complements the savory meatloaf perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• Gravy: Make a simple pan gravy using the meatloaf drippings for an extra layer of flavor.

This recipe provides a framework; feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature gourmet meatloaf. Enjoy!