Roxie's Righteous Meatloaf
Tangy, moist dish for family, friends, and company alike. Easily adaptable for loaf pans and large muffin tins alike (for individual servings). Tangy with Ro-Tel tomatoes (or just plain tomatoes) will keep it moist. I use fine bread crumbs as they mix/absorb better than cracker crumbs.
Tangy, moist dish for family, friends, and company alike. Easily adaptable for loaf pans and large muffin tins alike (for individual servings). Tangy with Ro-Tel tomatoes (or just plain tomatoes) will keep it moist. I use fine bread crumbs as they mix/absorb better than cracker crumbs.
- Carbohydrate 25.6335163831083 g
- Cholesterol 123.8094529 mg
- Fat 19.2615965888335 g
- Fiber 1.36166609360362 g
- Protein 25.5937769172687 g
- Saturated Fat 7.25426160343402 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (199g)
- Sodium 655.212597110726 mg
- Sugar 24.2718502895047 g
- Trans Fat 2.75406644138087 g
- Calories 381 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 375 F. In a large bowl, combine the onion, egg, tomatoes, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper thoroughly. THEN add the ground beef and mix well with hands. (I have found it is much easier to combine the ground beef INTO the previously mixed ingredients instead of everything all together.) Place the mixture in a baking dish (or large muffin tins) big enough to hold the meat loaf. (Two pounds of ground beef will take two loaf pans). Shape the meat mixture into a loaf about 8x3 in.
- In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread over the loaf. Bake for 1 hour, until well browned. Serve hot.
- If cooking only muffin tin loaves, decrease temp to 350 degrees and cook 45 min.
Roxie's Righteous Meatloaf: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. This meatloaf recipe has become a staple in our household, a true weeknight winner that even my picky eaters devour. It's incredibly versatile; perfect for a cozy family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a potluck. The tangy flavor from the Ro-Tel tomatoes adds a delightful zest, keeping the meatloaf wonderfully moist. I’ve experimented with different breadcrumb types, and I find that fine breadcrumbs work best because they incorporate so well into the mixture, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful loaf.
What sets this meatloaf apart is its adaptability. You can easily bake it in a traditional loaf pan for a classic presentation, or you can opt for individual servings by using a large muffin tin. This is a fantastic option for meal prepping or for when you want to offer controlled portions. The recipe is also incredibly forgiving. Don't have Ro-Tel? Regular diced tomatoes work just as well. Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Prefer a sweeter glaze? Increase the brown sugar slightly. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be customized to suit your taste and your schedule.
A Recipe Born from Necessity (and a Little Bit of Spontaneity)
This recipe wasn't born from some grand culinary vision. It was more of an evolution, a happy accident born out of a desire for a quick and satisfying dinner. One particularly hectic Tuesday evening, I found myself staring into the fridge, desperately searching for inspiration. I had a pound of ground beef, some pantry staples, and a can of Ro-Tel that had been lurking in the back for far too long. The idea of a meatloaf popped into my head, and the rest, as they say, is history. I started experimenting, tweaking the ingredients and the cooking method until I perfected this recipe, one that brings a comforting sense of familiarity to my family each time we enjoy it. The result was not only a delicious meal, but a recipe that reflects my personal approach to cooking: resourceful, adaptable, and always focused on creating simple yet satisfying meals for the people I love.
I love how this meatloaf is more than just a meal; it's a conversation starter. It’s the kind of dish that encourages family members to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter. It's a simple act that has become a treasured ritual in our home, a testament to the power of food to bring people together. The aroma alone, filling the kitchen with a comforting warmth, is enough to put a smile on everyone's faces.
Tips and Tricks for Meatloaf Perfection
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure meatloaf perfection. First, don't overmix the meat. Gentle mixing prevents a tough loaf. Second, the baking time might need to be adjusted depending on your oven and the size of your loaf. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 160°F. And finally, don't be afraid to experiment! Try adding different herbs and spices, or substituting the ground beef with turkey or chicken. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, there's always time for a home-cooked meal that nourishes the body and soul. So, the next time you find yourself in need of a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make dish, give Roxie's Righteous Meatloaf a try. You and your family won't be disappointed.
