Name: Million Dollar Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 can cooking spray; 1.5 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz); 2/3 cup evaporated milk; 1.5 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce; 2 tsp. kosher salt; 0.5 tsp. black pepper; 2 large eggs; 2 cloves garlic (grated on a Microplane); 1 medium sweet onion (7 oz., grated); 2 lb. 85% lean ground beef; 2/3 cup ketchup; 3 Tbsp. pepper jelly

Introduction to Million Dollar Meatloaf

When it comes to choosing comfort food, meatloaf often tops the list, and for good reason! The Million Dollar Meatloaf stands out not just for its delicious flavor, but also for its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is a fantastic option that pleases a crowd and yields mouthwatering leftovers, perfect for meal prep.

So, why consider meatloaf for your meals? First, it’s budget-friendly. Ground beef is an economical protein choice, allowing you to create an impressive dish without breaking the bank. Secondly, meatloaf is a one-pan wonder, saving you time on cleanup. Plus, you can mix in various ingredients—like your favorite herbs or even veggies—making it easy to customize according to your taste preferences or nutritional needs.

Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free. There’s something so satisfying about forming your meatloaf and watching it come together in the oven. For some inspiration, check out resources like Serious Eats for other comforting variations on this classic dish. Get ready to wow your guests (and yourself) with this Million Dollar Meatloaf!

Ingredients for Million Dollar Meatloaf

Essential ingredients for a perfect meatloaf

Creating the ultimate million dollar meatloaf starts with a few key ingredients that blend perfectly for flavor and moisture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooking spray: for greasing your baking dish.
Crushed buttery crackers: 1 ½ cups (like Ritz) provide a delicious base and texture.
Evaporated milk: ⅔ cup helps keep your meatloaf tender and juicy.
Worcestershire sauce: 1 ½ tablespoons add depth to the flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper: essential seasonings for a balanced taste.
Eggs: 2 large ones act as a binder.
Garlic and onion: both grated and fragrant, bringing a robust flavor.
Lean ground beef: 2 pounds is ideal for a rich, meaty flavor.
Ketchup and pepper jelly: used for a sweet and tangy topping.

Substitutes for dietary needs

If you have dietary restrictions or simply need alternatives, consider these substitutions:

Use gluten-free crackers instead of buttery ones for a gluten-free version.
Substitute almond milk for evaporated milk if you're dairy-free.
For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or plant-based ground beef.
Turkey bacon can be used as a delicious topping for an added crunch.

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs! This flexibility makes the million dollar meatloaf an approachable recipe for everyone. For more tips on cooking and ingredient substitutions, check out resources like Healthline or The Kitchn.

Step-by-step preparation of Million Dollar Meatloaf

Creating a mouthwatering million dollar meatloaf is not only easy but also an enjoyable culinary experience. Let’s break it down into simple steps that will guide you from preparation to that perfect, satisfying bake.

Prepare your baking dish

First things first, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it's warming up, you need to prepare your baking dish. Line a sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup and give it a good spray with cooking spray. This nifty little trick ensures that your meatloaf doesn’t stick and makes for a stress-free cooking experience. Plus, who wants to deal with a messy pan?

Form the meatloaf mixture

Now, it’s time to get hands-on! In a large bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers, evaporated milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and eggs. Feel free to throw in the grated garlic and sweet onion as you mix everything together. The sweetness of the onion combined with the hearty garlic creates a flavor that truly sets this meatloaf apart. Once those ingredients are well combined, add the 2 pounds of ground beef and mix thoroughly with your hands until everything is evenly incorporated. Shape this mixture into a freeform loaf about 9 x 4 inches in size and place it on your prepared pan.

Bake the meatloaf

It's time to let the oven work its magic! Bake your formed meatloaf in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. You might wonder what you should do with those 35 minutes. How about cleaning up a bit or prepping some sides? And while the meatloaf is baking, whisk together ketchup and pepper jelly in a medium bowl. This delightful glaze will add a glossy finish and a little kick to your meatloaf.

Brush on the glaze

When your meatloaf has baked for 35 minutes, take it out of the oven. You can carefully pat away any drippings around it for a cleaner presentation. Now, just spread that scrumptious ketchup mixture generously over the top—this is where the magic of flavor truly begins! Pop it back into the oven to bake for an additional 30 minutes.

Achieve that perfect bake

Finally, you'll know your million dollar meatloaf is ready when a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers at 165°F. Once out of the oven, give it a 5-minute rest before slicing into 12 beautiful pieces. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent.

And there you go! A delicious, homemade million dollar meatloaf that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and revel in the glory of a comfort food classic!

Variations on Million Dollar Meatloaf

Cheesy Million Dollar Meatloaf

If you’re a cheese lover, this twist on the classic million dollar meatloaf will surely delight your taste buds! Simply fold in one cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into your meat mixture before shaping it into a loaf. For an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle more cheese on top before you glaze it with the ketchup and pepper jelly mix. This variation not only enhances the flavor but also adds a gooey texture that makes every bite irresistibly melty. Check out more cheesy recipes on Serious Eats.

Spicy Million Dollar Meatloaf

For those who crave a kick, why not spice things up with a million dollar meatloaf that hits all the right heat notes? Incorporate a tablespoon or two of your favorite hot sauce into the meat mixture, or add some red pepper flakes for warmth. You can even mix in diced jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor! Topped with a spicy barbecue glaze instead of the traditional ketchup mixture, this version will certainly add some sizzle to your dinner table. Spice aficionados can explore more at Chili Pepper Madness.

These variations will make dinner exciting and give you a chance to showcase your creativity in the kitchen!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Million Dollar Meatloaf

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Creating the perfect million dollar meatloaf can be a delight, but a few common pitfalls might trip you up:

Overmixing: When combining the ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Ideally, you want it to be cohesive but still tender.
Skipping the resting time: After baking, let your meatloaf rest for about five minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Ignoring internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the center should hit 165°F. This not only guarantees it's safe to eat but also locks in flavor.

By avoiding these mistakes and focusing on quality ingredients, you'll have a meatloaf that truly lives up to its name! For more tips on preparing great meatloaf, consider checking out resources like the Food Network or Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for Million Dollar Meatloaf

Best side dishes to complement your meatloaf

Pairing your Million Dollar Meatloaf with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights! Consider these delicious options:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they’re a classic match that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
Steamed Green Beans: Their freshness adds a nice crunch to your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A sweet and savory combination enhances the meatloaf’s rich profile.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors perfectly.

Creative ways to serve leftovers

Leftover Million Dollar Meatloaf doesn’t have to be boring! Here are some creative ideas to spice things up:

Meatloaf Sandwich: Slap a slice between two pieces of whole-grain bread with a dollop of relish for a tasty lunch.
Meatloaf Hash: Chop up leftovers, sauté with potatoes and veggies for a hearty breakfast.
Stuffed Peppers: Mix crumbled meatloaf with rice and veggies, stuff it into halved bell peppers, and bake for a new take.

With these serving suggestions, your Million Dollar Meatloaf will shine every day of the week! For more inspiration, check out these meal prep ideas.

Time Breakdown for Million Dollar Meatloaf

Preparation Time

Getting ready for your Million Dollar Meatloaf is a breeze! You'll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients, preheat the oven to 350°F, and mix everything together, creating that delicious meatloaf blend.

Cooking Time

Once your meatloaf is formed, it bakes for 35 minutes before you brush on the mouthwatering ketchup and pepper jelly glaze. You’ll finish it off with an additional 30 minutes of baking, ensuring it’s cooked through and juicy.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. This includes prep and cooking, plus a little resting time for that perfect slice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering!

For tips on customizing your meatloaf or exploring interesting side dishes, check out resources like the Food Network for inspiring ideas.

Nutritional Facts for Million Dollar Meatloaf

When it comes to indulging in a delicious home-cooked meal, it’s good to know what you're serving up. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional profile for the Million Dollar Meatloaf:

Calories

A generous slice of this million dollar meatloaf contains approximately 300 calories, making it a fulfilling option for dinner without packing in too many calories.

Protein

Packed with around 25 grams of protein per serving, this meatloaf is a great choice for those looking to boost their protein intake. It’s perfect for refueling after a long day!

Sodium

Be cautious with sodium, as each slice carries about 600 milligrams. Those monitoring their sodium intake should consider using low-sodium versions of some ingredients to keep it heart-healthy.

For more insights on healthy eating, you may find resources from the American Heart Association helpful! Enjoy your cooking!

FAQ about Million Dollar Meatloaf

How can I store leftover meatloaf?

Leftover million dollar meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. If you’re looking to maintain the flavor and texture, consider slicing the meatloaf before storing, making it easier to reheat individual portions.

Can I freeze meatloaf?

Absolutely! Freezing million dollar meatloaf is a fantastic way to save it for later. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

What meat can substitute for ground beef in meatloaf?

If you’re looking for alternatives to ground beef, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also experiment with ground pork or beef blends for added flavor. Whichever meat you choose, ensure it is cooked thoroughly and well-seasoned to maintain that delicious, comforting taste! For more meat substitution tips, check out this resource.

Conclusion on Million Dollar Meatloaf

In summary, the Million Dollar Meatloaf is a mouthwatering dish that combines comfort and flavor with a twist. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it's a perfect weeknight dinner that impresses guests too. Don’t forget to explore more variations of meatloaf available online for inspiration!