If you're like most people, you might be wondering what meatloaf is. Is it a type of meat? A loaf of bread? Some sort of strange new pastry? The answer to all of these is no - meatloaf is an American classic dish made from ground meat, usually beef or pork. It's often served as part of a larger meal, or as part of a sandwich. And while it might not be the most festive dish on the Thanksgiving table, it's certainly one of the most popular! In this blog post, we'll take a look at some delicious meatloaf recipes that will make your mouth water.

What is Meatloaf?

Meatloaf is a dish made with ground meat (typically beef or pork), mixed with other ingredients such as bread crumbs, eggs, and seasonings, formed into a loaf shape, and baked or smoked. It is often served sliced and topped with a tomato-based sauce.

Some variations of meatloaf incorporate other ingredients such as vegetables, cheese, or diced ham.

In the United States, meatloaf has long been a popular comfort food and is often served with mashed potatoes or as sandwich meat on crusty bread. It can also be made into smaller, individual portions and served as a main course or appetizer.

Health Benefits of Meatloaf

Eating meatloaf can have many health benefits. Firstly, it is a good source of protein, which helps to build and repair muscles and tissues in the body. It also contains essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own.

Additionally, meatloaf often includes vegetables such as onions and bell peppers, adding important nutrients like vitamins A and C. It can also be made with lean meats, such as turkey or chicken, making it a lower-fat option compared to other meats. Including meatloaf in your diet can help to maintain a healthy weight and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

Meatloaf for Thanksgiving

While traditional Thanksgiving meals often include a roasted turkey as the main dish, many Americans also enjoy serving meatloaf on the holiday table. It has become a popular alternative to turkey for those who do not enjoy the bird's flavor or texture.

Some families even have their unique twist on meatloafs, such as adding cranberry sauce or stuffing it with a mixture of ground turkey and pork. So, while meatloaf may not be as traditional as roasted turkey, it certainly has its place on the Thanksgiving table for those who prefer it.

It tastes like a cross between the two finest things offered at Thanksgiving dinner: turkey and stuffing. This major dish meatloaf is a fantastic way to use up leftovers or to replace a large turkey on Thanksgiving day. So, people who want to be traditional can enjoy meatloaf a day after Thanksgiving.

Holiday Glazed Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

- 1/2 kg ground beef

- 1 sliced garlic clove

-1 teaspoon of salt

-1/4 tsp black pepper

- 1/2 cup bread crumbs

- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

- 1 medium chopped onion

- 1 beaten egg

- 2 teaspoons olive oil

- 2–4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

- Preset the oven temperature to 350°F (175 degrees C).

- In a frying pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until tender.

- Turn off the heat and leave aside to cool.

- Combine them with the remaining primary components. Shape the loaf & place in a baking dish.

- Whisk together all of the glaze ingredients and leave aside.

- Cook the meatloaf for 50 minutes in the oven.

- Pour the glaze mixture over top and bake for 1 minute more.

- Set aside for 5-10 minutes to cool. Slice and serve.

Cranberry Sauce Recipe

A complimentary dish with meatloaf is cranberry sauce because of the savory and sweet elements together. So here is the recipe:

Ingredients:

- 1 12-ounce bag of cranberries

- 1 cup of sugar

- 1 cup of water.

Instructions:

- First, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Cook, stirring periodically, over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.

- Then, reduce the heat and let simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.

- Allow cooling before serving. Optional additions include orange zest, cinnamon, or a splash of orange juice.

Overall, meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed beyond its traditional serving at Thanksgiving. Think outside the box and try using it in sandwiches, pasta dishes, or even as pizza toppings. The options are endless with this delicious and budget-friendly.