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Ina Garten’s Meatloaf: An Easy Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can compete with a well-made meatloaf. Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, has mastered this homely dish, creating a recipe that is not only simple but also incredibly flavourful. This meatloaf is a fantastic option for a family meal, delivering warmth and nostalgia in every bite.

Ingredients

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (preferably chuck)
• 1 pound (450g) ground turkey or chicken
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (100g) fresh breadcrumbs (preferably from a crusty loaf)
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup (120ml) ketchup (divided)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Onion and Garlic

In a medium skillet, heat a dash of olive oil over a medium flame and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and turkey (or chicken). To this, add in the sautéed onion and garlic, fresh breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.

Step 4: Form the Meatloaf

Transfer your meat mixture into a loaf tin or shape it into a free-form loaf on a lined baking tray. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon. This is the perfect time to preen your loaf into a slightly rounded shape, which helps it cook uniformly.

Step 5: Glaze the Loaf

Spread about ½ cup of the ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it is evenly coated. This adds a lovely sweetness and a beautiful glaze to your finished dish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the centre reaches an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F). It should be firm and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices within the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and moist. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s meatloaf is a delightful symphony of flavours and textures, yet it remains simple enough for even the most novice cook to master. With minimal preparation and straightforward steps, this dish encapsulates the essence of hearty home cooking. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or a busy weeknight, this meatloaf offers a heartwarming meal that will leave your family asking for seconds.

So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful classic. Happy cooking!

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