Hey there, foodies! Today, we're diving into a classic comfort food recipe that's sure to become a family favorite: Ina Garten's meatloaf. Known for her simple yet elegant approach to cooking, Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa herself, has perfected the art of making a meatloaf that's both moist and flavorful. And guess what? We've got the recipe and a video to guide you through every step. So, grab your apron, and let's get started!

Why Ina Garten's Meatloaf Stands Out

So, what makes Ina Garten's meatloaf so special? Well, it's all about the ingredients and the technique. Ina uses a combination of ground beef and ground pork, which gives the meatloaf a rich, savory flavor. She also adds sautéed vegetables, like onions and celery, which not only add moisture but also create a depth of flavor that's simply irresistible. And let's not forget the glaze! Ina's meatloaf glaze is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, made with ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. It's the perfect finishing touch that takes this meatloaf to the next level.

The Secret Ingredients

Let's talk more about these secret ingredients that make Ina's meatloaf a standout. First off, the combination of ground beef and ground pork is crucial. The beef provides that classic meatloaf flavor, while the pork adds richness and keeps the meatloaf moist. Ina also uses fresh thyme, which adds a subtle herbal note that complements the other flavors perfectly. And then there's the panko bread crumbs, which are lighter and airier than regular bread crumbs, resulting in a more tender meatloaf. Don't skimp on these ingredients, guys; they really make a difference!

The Perfect Glaze

Now, let's move on to the glaze. This isn't just any old ketchup glaze. Ina's glaze is a carefully crafted blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. The ketchup provides the base, the brown sugar adds sweetness and caramelization, and the Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth that ties everything together. When the meatloaf is baking, this glaze creates a beautiful, glossy crust that's both flavorful and visually appealing. Trust me, you'll want to make extra glaze just to drizzle over your serving!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get to the recipe, let's make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here's what you'll need for Ina Garten's meatloaf:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 1/2 cups plain dried bread crumbs (panko preferred)
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 pounds ground chuck (80% lean)
• 1 pound ground pork

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Alright, let's get cooking! Here's a step-by-step guide to making Ina Garten's meatloaf:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This lower temperature ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and stays moist.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Let the vegetables cool slightly.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, eggs, bread crumbs, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well.
4. Add the Meat: Add the ground chuck and ground pork to the bowl. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
5. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a baking dish. Shape the meatloaf into a loaf about 9x5 inches.
6. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
7. Glaze the Meatloaf: Brush the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
8. Bake the Meatloaf: Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the glaze starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the meatloaf with foil.
9. Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

Want to make sure your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough, dry meatloaf. Mix the ingredients gently until just combined.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure that your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf and cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Let it Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
• Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with the glaze to suit your taste. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Ina Garten's meatloaf is delicious on its own, but it's even better when served with some classic side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the rich, savory meatloaf.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• Green Beans: Simple steamed or sautéed green beans provide a fresh and vibrant contrast to the meatloaf.
• Mac and Cheese: For the ultimate comfort food meal, serve your meatloaf with a side of creamy mac and cheese.

Video Tutorial: Watch Ina Garten Make Her Meatloaf

Okay, guys, are you ready to see Ina Garten in action? Here's a video tutorial where she walks you through every step of making her famous meatloaf. Watch closely, and you'll pick up even more tips and tricks for making the perfect meatloaf every time.

[Insert YouTube Video Here]

Variations and Additions

Want to put your own spin on Ina Garten's meatloaf? Here are a few variations and additions to try:

• Add Cheese: Mix shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese into the meatloaf mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Add Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use Different Meats: Experiment with different combinations of ground meats, such as ground turkey, ground lamb, or ground veal.
• Add Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Planning a dinner party or just want to get ahead on your meal prep? You can easily make Ina Garten's meatloaf ahead of time. Simply prepare the meatloaf as directed, but don't bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, brush with the glaze, and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the meatloaf is cold.

You can also freeze the meatloaf for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Remove the plastic wrap and foil, brush with the glaze, and bake as directed.

Nutritional Information

Here's a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving of Ina Garten's meatloaf. Keep in mind that the exact values may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

• Calories: 450-500
• Fat: 30-35g
• Saturated Fat: 12-15g
• Cholesterol: 150-170mg
• Sodium: 700-800mg
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 30-35g

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! Ina Garten's meatloaf is a classic comfort food recipe that's sure to please everyone at your table. With its moist, flavorful meat and sweet and tangy glaze, it's a dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start cooking! And don't forget to watch the video tutorial for even more tips and tricks. Happy cooking!