Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe

Sometimes, all you need is a good ‘ol comforting meal that warms both your stomach and your soul. And one dish that never fails to deliver that cozy feeling is meatloaf. There are countless variations of this classic American dish, but today, we’re going to dive into the Joana Gaines meatloaf recipe and find out what makes it so special.

Joanna Gaines, the beloved home renovator and cookbook author, has become an icon for her down-to-earth approach to cooking and decorating. Her meatloaf recipe reflects her love for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. So, let’s take a closer look at what makes Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe so irresistible.

The Secret to Joanna Gaines’ Meatloaf Recipe

The key to Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients used. It is a no-fuss recipe that focuses on bringing out the natural flavors of the meat and the other components.

The Perfect Blend of Meats

One of the secrets to Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe is the combination of ground beef and ground pork. The beef provides a rich and hearty flavor, while the pork adds an extra level of tenderness and moisture to the meatloaf. This blend of meats creates a well-rounded and flavorful dish.

The Classic Flavor Boosters

Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe includes all the classic flavor boosters that you would expect in a traditional meatloaf. These include onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the meats.

A Surprising Twist – Hidden Veggies

One unique element of Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe is the addition of grated carrots and diced celery. These vegetables not only add a subtle sweetness and crunch to the meatloaf but also provide an extra dose of nutrients. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, especially if you have picky eaters at home.

Bacon Wrapped Goodness

As if the meatloaf itself wasn’t mouthwatering enough, Joanna Gaines takes it up a notch by wrapping it in bacon. The bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the dish while also helping to keep the meatloaf moist during baking. It’s a delicious indulgence that takes this classic dish to the next level.

The Finishing Touch – Tangy Tomato Glaze

To elevate the flavors of the meatloaf, Joanna Gaines adds a tangy tomato glaze on top. It’s a simple mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard that creates a sweet and tangy sauce. This glaze not only adds a beautiful caramelized finish to the meatloaf but also adds another layer of flavor that perfectly complements the savory meat.

How to Make Joanna Gaines’ Meatloaf

Now that we’ve explored the secrets behind Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to recreate this comforting dish at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, grated
– 2 stalks of celery, diced
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 8 slices of bacon
– For the glaze:
– ½ cup ketchup
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Arrange the bacon slices on top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to make the glaze.
6. Brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, making sure to cover it completely.
7. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I use different meats in Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe?

Absolutely! While Joanna Gaines’ recipe calls for a blend of ground beef and ground pork, you can certainly experiment with different meats. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, or you can mix and match meats according to your preferences.

Q. Can I make Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make the meatloaf ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe until step 7, then cover the meatloaf and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.

Q. Can I freeze Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf for later. Simply wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated oven until warmed through.

Q. What are some tasty side dishes to serve with Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf?

Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, macaroni and cheese, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative and serve it with your favorite sides!

Final Thoughts

Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple and wholesome ingredients. By combining quality meats, classic flavor boosters, hidden veggies, and a few special touches, she creates a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or gathering with friends, this meatloaf is sure to become a staple on your menu. So, go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!