Crafting the perfect meatloaf is an art, one that balances flavors, textures, and aromas to create a dish that’s much more than the sum of its parts. My journey to perfecting this meatloaf recipe has been driven by a desire to elevate a classic comfort food into a centerpiece worthy of any dining occasion. Through a meticulous selection of ingredients and a thoughtful approach to combining them, this recipe promises a meatloaf that is not only succulent and flavorful but also versatile enough to star in next-day sandwiches or as the heart of a homely dinner.
With a harmonious blend of lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and subtle seasonings, each slice offers a comforting embrace of home-cooked goodness. Herein lies the secret to a meatloaf that transcends ordinary expectations, inviting you to discover the depth of flavors that can be achieved in this humble dish.
How To Make Delia Smith Meatloaf Recipe Overview
This meatloaf isn’t your ordinary fare. The combination of vegetables, herbs, and oats gives it an unmatched moisture and flavor that sets it apart from the rest. Cooking time clocks in at about 1 hour and 15 minutes, ensuring the meatloaf is perfectly cooked through, with a tantalizingly crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. This recipe is designed to serve approximately 6 to 8 people, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or gatherings where you want to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2/3 cup milk (choose between reduced fat or whole milk based on preference)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1 cup ketchup, divided for use inside and as a glaze
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green pepper
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
- 3 pounds extra lean ground beef
Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil followed by the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, roughly 5 minutes. Introduce the thyme for an additional minute, then remove from heat to cool.
- Combine the oats with milk in a large mixing bowl, allowing them to soak for about 5 minutes to soften. To this, incorporate the cooled onion mixture, both red and green peppers, carrots, half of the ketchup, beaten eggs, fresh parsley, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Gently fold in the ground beef with the vegetable and oat mixture. It’s crucial to mix until just combined to prevent the meatloaf from becoming tough.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it on a lightly greased baking dish or a loaf pan prepared for this purpose.
- Use the remaining ketchup to coat the top of your loaf, adding a layer of flavor and moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. The meatloaf should be thoroughly cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Also Read: Delia Smith Almond Frangipane Tart: A French Patisserie Classic at Home
Nutritional Value (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 26g
Fat: 14g (Saturated: 5g, Unsaturated: 9g)
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 580mg
Serving Suggestions
Classic Comfort Pairing: Serve the meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. Drizzle the potatoes with a rich gravy made from the meatloaf drippings for an extra layer of flavor.
Rustic Roasted Vegetables: Accompany your meatloaf with a medley of roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. Season them with herbs like rosemary and thyme to complement the meatloaf’s savory notes.
Bright and Fresh Salad: Offset the richness of the meatloaf with a light, crisp salad. Mix arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. The freshness will balance the meal beautifully.
Hearty Grains: Pair the meatloaf with a side of quinoa or wild rice mixed with sautéed mushrooms and onions. This combination adds a wholesome, earthy element to the meal, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
Sweet Potato Fries: Serve the meatloaf with baked sweet potato fries for a sweet and savory twist. Season the fries with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and a dash of salt to enhance their natural sweetness.
FAQs:
Can I add or substitute other vegetables in the meatloaf?
Yes, this meatloaf recipe is quite flexible when it comes to vegetables. Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables of your choice, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, to add different flavors and textures. Just make sure to finely chop or grate them so they integrate well into the meatloaf. Adjusting the vegetable content can also be a great way to sneak in more nutrients.
Can I make this meatloaf in a slow cooker?
Yes, making meatloaf in a slow cooker is possible and can yield a very tender result. Shape the meatloaf and place it in the slow cooker, cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different from oven-baked, but it’s a fantastic, hands-off method that can be very convenient.
How can I ensure my meatloaf doesn’t come out dry?
To prevent a dry meatloaf, avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can lead to a tough, dense texture. Including ingredients like eggs, milk, and vegetables helps to keep the meatloaf moist. Also, make sure not to overcook it; using a meat thermometer to check for doneness is a reliable method. Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing also helps retain its juices.
What’s the best way to form the meatloaf to ensure it cooks evenly?
For even cooking, try to shape your meatloaf with consistent thickness throughout, avoiding any thin or thick ends. A uniform shape helps ensure that every part of the meatloaf reaches the desired temperature at the same time. Using a loaf pan can guide the shape, but free-forming it on a baking sheet gives you more control over the thickness and allows for a crispy exterior all around.
Conclusion
This meatloaf recipe embodies the essence of home cooking, merging ease with elegance. Each slice delivers a comforting, rich flavor, perfect for a hearty dinner or as a delicious sandwich filling the next day. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of thoughtful cooking and shared meals. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s designed to satisfy and comfort. Dive into this recipe and let it remind you of the joy found in a well-crafted meal shared with loved ones.