Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf

Cook Time: 75 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 10 servings

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 onion, diced
• Salt to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cups very dry white bread crumbs
• 1 cups milk
• 2 pounds ground chuck
• cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 3 cups tomato sauce, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Saut the onion with a pinch of salt in the hot oil and butter until the onion is golden brown and soft, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add the garlic and saut for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the onion mixture to cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Place the bread crumbs in a large bowl. Add the milk and stir with a fork until combined. Let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the bread crumbs to absorb the milk.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, combine the ground chuck, cooled onion mixture, parsley, Parmesan cheese, eggs, 2 teaspoons of salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Step 6: Take a handful of the bread crumb mixture and squeeze gently to remove excess milk. Repeat with the remaining bread crumbs. Add the squeezed bread crumbs to the ground chuck mixture and discard the excess milk. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish. Shape it into a 3x4x10-inch loaf.

Step 8: Pour the tomato sauce over the meatloaf and into the bottom of the dish.

Step 9: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink in the center. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160F (70C).

Step 10: Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	286
Total Fat	15g (19%)
Saturated Fat	6g (30%)
Cholesterol	86mg (29%)
Sodium	1129mg (49%)
Total Carbohydrate	19g (7%)
Dietary Fiber	2g (8%)
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	20g (39%)
Vitamin C	11mg (12%)
Calcium	167mg (13%)
Iron	3mg (17%)
Potassium	483mg (10%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

by Chef John Mitzewich

Origin of Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a beloved dish that traces its origins back to medieval Europe, where ground or minced meats were combined with breadcrumbs, grains, and spices. It became popular in the United States during the 19th century, as ground meat became more affordable and easy to prepare. American versions of meatloaf have evolved over time, with regional differences and variations based on personal taste, but its comfort-food status has remained consistent.

Regional Variations

While meatloaf is a quintessential American dish, there are numerous regional variations that give it a unique twist. In the South, its not uncommon to see meatloaf spiced with hot sauce or topped with a tangy tomato glaze. The Midwest often features a meatloaf that's hearty and simple, sometimes served with mashed potatoes and gravy. On the West Coast, some modern takes on the dish incorporate organic meats and unique ingredients like avocado or quinoa, providing a more contemporary and health-conscious approach to the traditional meatloaf.

How Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf Differs

Chef Johns Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf is distinct for its approach of combining the comforting elements of meatballs with the loaf-like structure of a traditional meatloaf. The recipe uses breadcrumbs soaked in milk, a technique that ensures a moist and tender texture. The addition of Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a touch of cayenne pepper elevates the flavor, setting it apart from basic meatloaf recipes. Additionally, the tomato sauce topping is reminiscent of the marinara typically used with meatballs, enhancing its Italian-inspired flair.

Where is it Commonly Served?

Meatloaf, including Chef John's variation, is often served in American homes as a hearty, family-friendly dinner. Its particularly popular for weeknight meals and is often paired with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. Its also commonly seen at diners, casual restaurants, and potluck gatherings, where its versatility and ability to feed a crowd make it a favorite. In some Italian-American communities, meatloaf may even make an appearance at festive gatherings, served with pasta for an extra touch of indulgence.

Interesting Facts

• In the 1950s, meatloaf gained significant popularity in America due to the rise of convenience foods. Canned versions of meatloaf became a staple in many households.
• Some cultures have their own versions of ground meat loaves. In Germany, "frikadellen" or "bulette" is a similar dish, often served with mustard or gravy.
• Chef John's Meatball-Inspired Meatloaf is a perfect example of how classic dishes can be reimagined with modern techniques and flavors, offering a fresh take on a beloved dish.
• Meatloaf has even appeared on television shows like "The Simpsons" and "Friends," solidifying its place in pop culture as a symbol of comfort food.

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