Amazingly Easy Meatloaf Recipe with Crackers!

This article details an easy meatloaf recipe with crackers, offering a simple yet flavorful approach to a classic dish. The inclusion of crushed crackers adds texture and moisture, resulting in a tender and satisfying meatloaf. This recipe prioritizes ease of preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights, while still delivering exceptional taste and satisfying results. The straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients ensure success for home cooks of all skill levels. Furthermore, this recipe provides a delicious and budget-friendly meal option.

The simplicity of this recipe lies in its minimal ingredient list and straightforward preparation method. The crushed crackers contribute a unique textural element, absorbing excess moisture and creating a wonderfully crumbly interior. This method also helps bind the meatloaf, ensuring it holds its shape during baking. The result is a moist, flavorful meatloaf that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual weeknight meal. The recipe’s versatility allows for easy customization with the addition of various herbs and spices. Many find this method to produce a superior meatloaf compared to traditional recipes that omit the cracker component.

This recipe’s ease makes it an accessible option for novice cooks while still delivering a high-quality result seasoned home cooks will appreciate. The recipe highlights the surprising benefits of adding simple crackers to achieve a richer flavor and texture. The straightforward steps ensure a stress-free cooking experience. The recipe’s affordability and adaptability make it a versatile choice for many occasions. The outcome consistently surpasses expectations, even with minimal effort involved.

Ingredients for an Easy Meatloaf Recipe

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions for an Easy Meatloaf Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, egg, ketchup, milk, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160F (71C).
5. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for this Easy Meatloaf Recipe

This easy meatloaf recipe typically takes approximately 60-70 minutes to cook and yields approximately 6 servings. The cooking time can slightly vary depending on oven temperature and the size of the meatloaf. The recipe is easily scalable; simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally to serve more or fewer people. The meatloaf is best served warm, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated as needed. The recipe provides a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The ease and speed of preparation mean a quick and delicious dinner is always on the table.

Nutritional Information for this Easy Meatloaf Recipe

This recipe provides a good source of protein from the ground beef, along with carbohydrates from the crackers. The added onion contributes fiber and vitamins. The nutritional content will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used, but it generally provides a balanced meal. Note that nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient measurements. It’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your chosen ingredients. This meatloaf recipe should be considered part of a balanced diet and not the sole source of nutritional intake.

The following table provides estimated nutritional information per serving. Keep in mind that these are estimates and may differ depending on the specific ingredients used. Consult a nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

Tips for Cooking this Easy Meatloaf Recipe

This simple meatloaf recipe can be elevated with a few helpful cooking tips. By paying attention to detail during preparation and baking, the final product will be more flavorful and satisfying. The following tips focus on enhancing both texture and taste to achieve the best possible outcome. Remember, even minor adjustments can significantly impact the quality of your final meatloaf. These tips aim to guide you towards a consistently delicious result.

1. Don’t overmix the meat: Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
2. Use good quality ground beef: The flavor of the meatloaf is heavily influenced by the quality of the ground beef. Opt for a higher fat content for a moister meatloaf.
3. Add flavor enhancements: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or paprika are excellent additions.
4. Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160F (71C) to prevent foodborne illnesses.
5. Let it rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
6. Consider glazing: A simple glaze of ketchup or BBQ sauce added during the last 15-20 minutes of baking can add extra flavor and a glossy finish.

The addition of crushed crackers significantly enhances the texture and moisture of this meatloaf. This simple technique is frequently overlooked but yields a noticeable improvement in the final product. The resulting meatloaf is both flavorful and satisfying, making it a versatile choice for various meals. The ease of preparation ensures this recipe can be prepared even on busy weeknights.

This recipe’s adaptability allows for culinary creativity. Experimentation with different types of crackers and additions like vegetables or cheese will lead to unique flavor combinations. The recipe’s fundamental simplicity ensures successful results for all skill levels, offering a truly satisfying culinary experience. The combination of ease of preparation and delicious results positions this meatloaf as a consistently popular choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about this Easy Meatloaf Recipe

This section addresses common queries regarding preparation and cooking techniques to ensure a successful meatloaf experience. Addressing these frequently asked questions clarifies potential confusion and helps ensure optimal results. Understanding these aspects of the recipe promotes consistent success and a satisfying culinary outcome.

1. Can I use different types of crackers?

   Yes, you can experiment with different types of crackers, such as Ritz crackers or oyster crackers. The flavor and texture might vary slightly.

2. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
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   Yes, finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrients.

3. What if my meatloaf is too dry?

   Adding a bit more milk or even a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the mixture can help prevent dryness. Ensuring your ground beef has a higher fat content can also improve moisture.

4. How long can I store leftovers?

   Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze the meatloaf?

   Yes, you can freeze unbaked or baked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.

This easy meatloaf recipe offers a convenient and satisfying meal option. The straightforward method and readily available ingredients make it accessible to all cooks. Mastering this recipe opens the door to countless culinary experiments and variations, making it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire.

Ultimately, this recipe showcases the potential for simple ingredients to yield impressive results. The balanced flavors, appealing texture, and ease of preparation make it a culinary winner. The recipe’s success rests in its attention to detail and understanding of fundamental cooking principles.

In conclusion, this easy meatloaf recipe is a reliable and delicious option for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and flavorful outcome ensure its continued popularity. Enjoy!

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