Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf

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Are you tired of the same old meatloaf recipe? Looking for something that will surprise your taste buds and leave you wanting more?

Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf
Prep
20 min
Cook
1 hr 15 min
Total
2 hr
Servings
10

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter together.

  4. Saute the onion with a pinch of salt in the hot oil and butter until it turns golden brown and becomes soft. This should take around 5 to 10 minutes.

  5. Add the garlic and saute until it becomes fragrant, which usually takes about 30 seconds.

  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the onion mixture to cool down to room temperature.

  7. Place bread crumbs in a large bowl.

  8. Add milk to the bowl and stir with a fork until the bread crumbs are fully absorbed. Let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes.

  9. In a separate bowl, combine ground chuck, cooled onion mixture, parsley, Parmesan cheese, eggs, 2 teaspoons of salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

  10. Take a handful of bread crumbs and gently squeeze to remove excess milk. Repeat this step with the remaining bread crumbs, then transfer the bread crumbs to the ground chuck mixture and discard any excess milk.

  11. Stir the ground chuck mixture until it is evenly combined.

  12. Turn the chuck mixture out into the prepared baking dish and shape it into a 3x4x10-inch meatloaf.

  13. Pour tomato sauce over the meatloaf and into

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old meatloaf recipe? Looking for something that will surprise your taste buds and leave you wanting more? Look no further than Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf! This delicious twist on a classic comfort food will have you coming back for seconds.

A Unique Twist on a Classic

Just like a meatball, Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf is packed with flavor and juicy goodness. It combines all the traditional ingredients of a meatloaf with the mouthwatering taste of a meatball. The result is a dish that is both familiar and exciting.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of meatloaf that is tender, moist, and bursting with savory flavors. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices creates a delightful medley of tastes that will leave you craving more.

The Secret Ingredient

What sets Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf apart from the rest is the secret ingredient: Parmesan cheese. This flavorful addition adds a rich and tangy taste to the meatloaf, elevating it to a whole new level. The cheese melts into the meat as it bakes, creating a luscious and gooey texture.

Just like a meatball, Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf is all about the perfect balance of flavors. The combination of herbs and spices, such as garlic, oregano, and basil, adds a depth of flavor that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

The Perfect Texture

One of the challenges of making meatloaf is achieving the perfect texture. No one wants a dry and crumbly meatloaf that falls apart with each bite. With Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf, you can say goodbye to dry and hello to juicy.

By using a combination of ground beef and ground pork, the meatloaf stays moist and tender. The addition of breadcrumbs and milk helps to bind the ingredients together, creating a meatloaf that holds its shape while remaining incredibly flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it warm with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting and satisfying meal. Or, slice it cold and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. The possibilities are endless!

Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf is sure to impress. The unique twist on a classic will have everyone asking for seconds and wanting to know your secret recipe.

Conclusion

Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf is the perfect dish for those who want to add a touch of excitement to their meatloaf recipe. With its juicy texture, flavorful ingredients, and unique twist, it is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied. So, why settle for ordinary meatloaf when you can have a meatball-inspired masterpiece?

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef and pork if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This is a great time-saving option for busy weeknights.

. Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Of course! Feel free to add diced onions, bell peppers, or grated carrots to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

. Can I use different types of cheese?

Definitely! While Parmesan cheese adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to suit your taste.

. How long should I bake the meatloaf?

The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your meatloaf. As a general guideline, a 2-pound meatloaf will take about 1 hour to cook at 350°F (175°C).

. Can I add a glaze to the meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can brush the top of the meatloaf with a glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce for an extra touch of sweetness and tanginess.

. Can I use this recipe to make meatballs instead?

Yes, you can definitely use this recipe to make meatballs. Simply shape the mixture into small balls and bake them at the same temperature and cooking time as the meatloaf.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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