Melt-In-Your-Mouth Meatloaf Recipe

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Meatloaf is a variation of the classic meatloaf recipe known for its incredibly tender and juicy texture. The key to achieving this melt-in-your-mouth quality usually involves a combination of ingredients and techniques, such as:

• Ground Meat Blend: Using a mix of ground beef and pork can enhance the flavor and moisture.
• Breadcrumbs: Soaked in milk or broth to add moisture and tenderness.
• Eggs: Help bind the meatloaf together while keeping it moist.
• Seasonings and Vegetables: Adding finely chopped onions, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.
• Slow Cooking: Sometimes, cooking the meatloaf at a lower temperature for a longer time can help maintain its tenderness.

Ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the milk is absorbed and the breadcrumbs are soft.
3. Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix to avoid a dense loaf.
4. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf shape if using a baking sheet, or form it into a loaf inside the pan.
5. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Apply the Glaze: Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
8. Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more tender.

A glaze on top, often made from ketchup or BBQ sauce, can also contribute to the overall flavor and moisture.