Simple Meatloaf

Let's face it; meatloaf doesn't usually make the "Top Ten" of favorite foods. It's a humble dish that is mostly unattractive and some versions are downright scary. The list of ingredients for this unassuming entree is as varied as can be with gems like hot dogs or hard-boiled eggs. A quick perusal of a cookbook on my shelf grabs your attention with appealing titles like "Zucchini Meatloaf", "Potato-Frosted Meatloaf" and "Pizza Meatloaf."

Yes, really, pizza meatloaf. Need I say more?

But I think this dish gets a bum wrap. A tender, well-flavored meatloaf can be quite delicious and paired with potatoes and a side of veggies makes a satisfying, homestyle meal. Plus, there's not much easier to throw together than a meatloaf.

When I was in my early teens, I wasn't too fond of cooking. But I did make meatloaf. It was kind of my specialty. My mom's recipe is simple and straightforward without any crazy ingredients.

Because sometimes less is more.



Note: I don't use a glaze, but that doesn't mean you can't if that's what you like! 

Also...if your favorite version is "pizza meatloaf", my sincere apologies ;)

Meatloaf

Serves 4 - 6

2 beaten eggs

6 oz. tomato sauce (use 3/4 of a 8 oz. can)

1 1/2 lbs. ground beef

12 crushed saltine crackers (1/2 cup)

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 tsp salt, scant

Pinch of dried thyme leaves (not ground thyme)

Pinch of dried marjoram leaves (not ground marjoram)

Start by lining a 9 x 13 pan with tin foil. You will be so glad you did. 

Crack the eggs into a large bowl. Beat well. 

Mix in the tomato sauce. Remember, only 3/4 of a can. 

Otherwise, your meatloaf will be too wet.

Crush the crackers. It's easiest to put them in a baggie and crush them with a rolling pin.

Chop the onion.

Combine it all! 

Add the meat, crushed crackers, onion, salt, thyme and marjoram the tomato sauce/egg mixture.

As you add the thyme and marjoram, crush them between your fingers to release their flavors.

Just a note...make sure to use dried herb leaves, not ground dried herbs. If you use ground, you'll end up adding a lot more and it will give your meatloaf a weird flavor. You don't want too much!

Now, take off your rings...

...and mix it all together with your hands. 

Only mix until combined or you run the risk of tough meatloaf!

Dump into the foil-lined pan and shape into a loaf.

Bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/4 hours.

Recipe from my momma.