Hamburger Meatloaf Your Way

Tell me you do this too with your meatloaf… 🤤

Make your meatloaf your way.

Here’s how I make mine: I use 1 lb of ground beef, 1 egg, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 yellow onion, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

The Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients :

• Ground Beef: I prefer using ground chuck because of its balance of fat and flavor, but feel free to use any ground meat you enjoy. Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter options!
• Egg: This helps bind the ingredients together, giving the meatloaf that perfect texture.
• Breadcrumbs: You can use regular breadcrumbs, Panko for a lighter texture, or even crushed crackers. Each adds a distinct touch to your meatloaf.
• Yellow Onion: I find yellow onion offers a nice sweetness when cooked, complementing the beef perfectly. You could also substitute with shallots or even garlic for added flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Always a must for seasoning! Feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds deep umami flavor. You can also consider using soy sauce or even some hot sauce for a kick.

Steps to Create Your Masterpiece

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1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is crucial for a perfectly cooked meatloaf.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onions, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spatula. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
3. Form the Loaf: Once mixed, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making mini-loaves or burger patties for individual servings.
4. The Cheese Surprise: For a gooey surprise, I like to push some cubed cheese into the center of the loaf. Velveeta works wonders for that melty effect, but feel free to use your favorite cheese, whether it’s cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
5. Add Toppings: Before putting it in the oven, cover the top of your meatloaf with additional meat mixture, forming a kind of cap over the cheese.
6. Bake: Place your meatloaf in a greased baking dish and bake it in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes.
7. Ketchup Glaze: After 40 minutes, pull it out of the oven. Spread ketchup over the top for a sweet and tangy glaze and then return it to the oven for another 15 minutes. This will caramelize the ketchup slightly, adding to the overall flavor.
8. Check the Temperature: Ensure that your meatloaf has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. You can use a meat thermometer to check.
9. Rest and Serve: Once done, let your meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep all the juices intact, ensuring every bite is mouthwatering.

Customize to Your Liking

The beauty of this hamburger meatloaf recipe is that it can be easily customized. Here are a few variations:

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Version: Mix in some finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to sneak in some veggies.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or even basil can add a unique flavor profile to your meatloaf.

Pairing Suggestions

What goes well with your meatloaf? Here are some pairing ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, indulgent mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the heartiness of meatloaf perfectly.
• Green Beans: A simple sauté of green beans with garlic and olive oil creates a fresh and crunchy contrast.
• Cornbread: For a Southern twist, serve your meatloaf with some delicious cornbread.
• Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich meatloaf.

Leftover Magic

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), consider these options:

• Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice your leftover meatloaf and put it between two slices of bread with your favorite condiments and veggies for a delicious sandwich.
• Meatloaf Hash: Chop up the remaining meatloaf and sauté it with diced potatoes and onions for a hearty breakfast.
• Meatloaf Tacos: Crumble the meatloaf and use it as a filling for tacos, dressed with cheese, lettuce, and your favorite salsa.

A Family Tradition

The journey of transforming meatloaf into a giant burger has become a beloved family tradition. Not only does it adapt to everyone’s taste preferences, but it also sparks creativity in the kitchen. Each family member can choose their toppings, from traditional lettuce and tomato to more adventurous options like avocado or pickled jalapeños.

It brings us all together, as we sit around the table, sharing laughs and stories while enjoying this delicious meal. The giant meatloaf hamburger not only fills our bellies but also our hearts.

Conclusion

In crafting this hamburger meatloaf, we not only create a meal but also an experience—an opportunity to gather with loved ones, enjoy some tasty food, and build lasting memories. So the next time you find yourself with some ground beef, don’t just make a simple meatloaf; elevate it into a giant burger and let everyone join in the fun. Share this recipe with family and friends, and who knows? You might start your own meatloaf tradition! 🍽️✨