This traditional meatloaf recipe is just like Mom used to make. However, I am the Mom and I do make this.
Meatloaf, a classic comfort food, typically calls for a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal. But in our home, we had to get creative. With Amanda's red meat allergy and our family's love for poultry, ground turkey became the star ingredient. This adaptation allowed us to enjoy this beloved dish without compromising our dietary needs.
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As Amanda outgrew her red meat allergy and started a life with Joe, they decided to experiment with the traditional meatloaf recipe. Swapping ground turkey for ground beef, they discovered a delicious alternative that remained just as moist and tender. This simple switch proves that a classic dish can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.
Whether you opt for ground turkey or beef, a final touch of ketchup brushed over the top before baking elevates the flavor and creates a beautiful, caramelized crust. After about an hour and a half in the oven, you'll be rewarded with a comforting, home-cooked meal that's sure to satisfy.
For our mashed yuca recipe to enjoy with the side of your meatloaf, click here to jump to the location for the instructions inside our Shepard's Pie recipe.
Momma Mac's Cooking Corner:
Classic Meatloaf
Ingredients
1 to 2 pounds of grass-fed ground beef or ground turkey
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon parsley, with extra for garnish
1 teaspoon oregano, with extra for garnish
½ teaspoon sea salt
Breadcrumb - we made our own homemade breadcrumbs by toasting Happy Campers GF bread and adding it to a food processor until crumbled.
Ketchup, for topping
Oil, for cooking dish
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Directions
Preheat the oven to 365° F.
In a large bowl, using your washed hands, combine the beef, egg, garlic, onion powder, parsley, oregano, and sea salt. Add breadcrumbs as needed to lessen the "wetness" of the meat mixture. Combine until firm.
In a cooking dish with a lid, add oil to the bottom to prevent the meat from sticking. Place the meat mixture on the dish, and form into a loaf, about 9 inches long and 4 to 5 inches wide.
Using a spoon, cover the top with ketchup, as much as you desire. Then sprinkle breadcrumb, parsley, and oregano for garnishing.
Cook for 1 hour covered. Then cook uncovered for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the meat thermometer reads 160 degrees.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.