Mouthwatering Classic Meatloaf Recipe for Dinner Tonight
Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters? Look no further than this three meat meatloaf recipe. This classic dish has been given a delicious upgrade, with the addition of ground beef, pork sausage, and ground turkey to elevate the flavor and texture of your standard meatloaf.
This recipe is perfect for when you want to impress your guests with something different or when you simply want to treat yourself to something special. It’s easy to make but still packs a punch of flavor that everyone will enjoy.
As a culinary explorer, I’ve searched far and wide for new recipes that can satisfy my taste buds, but sometimes, nothing beats the classics. Meatloaf is one such classic dish that everyone loves – it’s a timeless favorite that has been around for generations. And with this delicious three meat meatloaf recipe, you’ll surely win the hearts and stomachs of all who try it. So let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Calling all meatloaf lovers! This three meat meatloaf recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds and have you begging for seconds. This recipe is simply irresistible and here’s why:
Firstly, this meatloaf offers a tasty twist on the classic beef meatloaf recipe. With three types of protein, including pork sausage, ground pork, and ground beef, the combination of flavors and textures are out of this world. The pork sausage adds a pop of spice while the ground beef brings a hearty flavor to the dish.
Secondly, this recipe boasts an added crunch factor due to the panko breadcrumbs used in the mixture. Not only does it add texture to the meatloaf, but it also helps to bind the ingredients together creating a perfectly shaped loaf every time.
Thirdly, this three meat meatloaf is incredibly moist and juicy thanks to the milk and egg mixture that is added in with the ground meats. This not only aids in binding but also helps keep your loaf from drying out while baking.
Finally, the thyme, garlic cloves, and onion provide a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds sing. And let’s not forget about the classic meatloaf sauce made with ketchup which elevates this dish from good to heavenly.
Overall, this three meat meatloaf recipe is sure to satisfy even the biggest carnivore at your table. So when planning your next meal, give this recipe a try and experience for yourself what makes it stand out from traditional meatloafs.
Ingredient List
Are you tired of the same old, same old classic meatloaf recipe? Or maybe just want to try creating something new and exciting? Look no further because this 3 Meat Meatloaf Recipe is here to change the meatloaf game for you! The recipe packs three different types of meat to give a luscious texture and enhances the flavor profile.
The following are the ingredients you will need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 onion diced small
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg slightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped (optional)
- 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper
- Optional vegetables such as chopped mushrooms, finely diced bell pepper, and grated carrots
Note: If you have a preference for a specific type of meat in your combination or want to replace one of the meats above, feel free to do so. However, keep in mind that using all three types will provide a scrumptious blend of flavors that make this dish so delicious.
The Recipe How-To
For this three-meat meatloaf recipe, you will need one pound of ground beef, one pound of ground pork and one pound of ground turkey. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F.
Combine Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the three types of ground meat with 1 and a half cups of panko breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until evenly combined.
Add Flavor
To the meat mixture, add half a cup of ketchup, 1 egg that is slightly beaten, 1/4 cup of milk, two minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves and 1 diced medium-sized onion. Season all the ingredients with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Form The Loaf
Transfer the mixture to a large loaf pan and press it down lightly to create an even surface. Spread about 3/4 cups of ketchup on top of the meatloaf mixture.
Bake in The Oven
Bake for approximately 75-90 minutes, or until the temperature at the center reaches 160°F.
Rest Before Cutting
Once baked in perfection, remove from the oven and let it rest for about ten minutes to allow it to firm up. Then slice into portions and serve with a side dish like classic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep since you can slice individual servings and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
Enjoy every juicy bite of this moist three-meat meatloaf!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to mix up the classic meatloaf recipe? Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get creative with substitutions and variations in our three meat meatloaf recipe!
Firstly, if you don’t have ground pork on hand, you can switch it out for pork sausage for an added zing. Similarly, if veal is not your thing, replace it with more beef or pork, or even turkey meatloaf for a leaner option.
Another versatile substitution is the use of breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs add a unique texture and taste to the meatloaf, but feel free to experiment with other breadcrumb types. Traditional bread crumbs or even crushed crackers would work as substitutes.
For a healthier spin on this delicious dish, consider swapping out regular ground beef for grass-fed ground beef. This type of meat tends to be lower in fat and calories while providing more omega-fatty acids that are packed full of health benefits.
If you’re in the mood for something spicy, try adding diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the mix. This substitution will give a smoky and fiery kick to your three-meat meatloaf.
Lastly, there is always room for creativity when it comes to toppings and pairings. While ketchup is a typical topping for classic meatloaf recipes, you may want to try experimenting with different sauces such as gravy or classic meatloaf sauce. Pairing your three-meat masterpiece with mashed potatoes and vegetables can also make for a hearty meal.
Mixing and matching these substitutions will allow you to experiment with different flavors and textures in each bite of your three-meat meatloaf. Walk on the wild side during your next cooking adventure!
Serving and Pairing
Once your three-meat meatloaf is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it and enjoy. This juicy and flavorful meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides, making it ideal for any meal. Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
The savory taste of the meatloaf goes hand in hand with earthy flavor profiles, such as rosemary and thyme-seasoned vegetables or crispy roasted potatoes. If you want to add a bit of sweetness, try pairing this dish with some maple-glazed root vegetables or honey-roasted carrots.
One serving suggestion that never fails to impress is to smother this meatloaf with a classic tomato sauce. The sweet and tangy flavors of ketchup blend excellently with the savory taste of the three meats in the loaf. If you’re feeling fancy, consider making a mushroom gravy or red wine sauce to complement the beef and pork in this recipe.
Another fantastic option when serving this dish is to top it with some sliced mozzarella cheese, baking until browned on top. This will add a rich and gooey texture to each bite that’s sure to please any cheese lover.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this three-meat meatloaf recipe never disappoints. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, providing comfort food goodness that everyone can appreciate.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As convenient as it is delicious, the 3 Meat Meatloaf recipe can be prepped ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. You can assemble the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf up to a day in advance. After wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap, simply store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
When you’re ready to bake the 3 meat meatloaf, remove the plastic wrap and place the loaf onto a baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Make sure to allow some space for the air to circulate around it. Bake fresh as instructed in section (4) The Recipe How-To.
The 3 Meat Meatloaf also holds up quite well in terms of storage. Once baked, let it cool down completely before transferring it into an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Properly stored in the refrigerator, this recipe can stay fresh for up to 4 days.
To reheat leftovers, gently heat the slices of meatloaf in a microwave on high for approximately one minute per slice. If you prefer not use a microwave, you can also gently reheat the meatloaf slices on a frying pan with low-medium heat, making sure to heat them through properly without burning.
With its smart make-ahead options and easy reheating method, this recipe is not only mouth-watering but also flexible enough to fit any schedule or meal plan.
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure your three meat meatloaf recipe turns out perfectly every time, I have some tips and techniques to share with you.
Firstly, it is crucial to use the right type of meat. For this recipe, I strongly recommend using a ground beef triple mix, which consists of beef, pork, and veal in 1:1:1 ratios. The combination of three different meats provides a unique flavor, mouthfeel and moisture that cannot be achieved by only one type of meat. I suggest getting grass-fed beef if possible, as it is leaner and healthier.
It’s important not to overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing can cause the meat to become tough and as a result, dry when cooked. So combine the ingredients just until everything is evenly distributed.
While forming your meatloaf in the loaf pan, pack the mixture down tightly to eliminate any air pockets. This will help you get an evenly dense product.
When measuring breadcrumbs for the recipe, use a scale instead of measuring cups for accuracy. If you don’t have a scale available or prefer using measuring cups, be sure to measure the breadcrumbs by lightly spooning them into the cup and leveling off the top with a knife for consistent results.
For a moist meatloaf texture, mix 1 pound of ground turkey or pork sausage with 2 pounds of ground beef in the recipe. The added fat from turkey or pork adds moisture to prevent your dish from drying out in the oven.
Lastly, let your meatloaf rest before slicing it. Wait at least 10 to 15 minutes before slicing it so that it has time to set and hold its shape. This will make cutting it much easier without causing any crumbling.
Follow these tips carefully for the best three-meat meatloaf experience.
FAQ
As you prepare to dive into the rich and delicious world of the Three Meat Meatloaf, there may be some questions that you would like to ask, after all, success in the kitchen is borne out of close attention to details. In this section, I have compiled a list of frequently asked questions, addressing common concerns and providing solutions where necessary. So, relax and read on for valuable insights that will guarantee delightful results.
What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
As you wander through the culinary landscape of meat-based dishes, ensure to keep two things in mind: adding moisture and seasoning. Moisture is the key to achieving a juicy and tender meat. In various recipes, you may see ingredients such as eggs, ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire, and barbecue sauce being added. These ingredients do more than just flavor the meat — they add moisture, resulting in scrumptious and juicy meat dishes. Therefore, don’t hesitate to add these wet seasonings in your recipe.
What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?
When crafting a meatloaf, it’s crucial to ensure that it doesn’t fall apart when cooking. This is often caused by a lack of binding agents, such as eggs and breadcrumbs that are essential in keeping the meat mixture cohesive. Without these vital components, the meatloaf may crumble and become unappetizing. So, it’s essential to include the right amount of binding agents in your recipe for a successful outcome.
Is it better to cook meatloaf at 350 or 400?
When making meatloaf, it’s important to set the oven temperature correctly to prevent the meat from drying out or burning. The ideal temperature is 350 degrees F, as it allows for even cooking throughout the meatloaf while creating a tasty and crispy crust. Setting the temperature too high will result in a burnt exterior and undercooked center, while setting it too low will yield a lackluster crust. So, remember to stick to 350 degrees F to achieve the best results.
What is meatloaf mix ratio?
When it comes to making the perfect ground meat for your recipe, it’s important to find the right balance between meat and fat. While some may use a ratio of 30 percent fat, it’s worth noting that there is a fine line between juicy and greasy. Most culinary explorers opt for ground chuck, which typically has an ideal proportion of 80 percent meat to 20 percent fat. This ratio ensures that your meat is not too lean or too greasy, which can make all the difference in your cooking.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this 3 Meat Meatloaf Recipe is a must-try for any meat lover. Ground beef, pork, and turkey come together in perfect harmony with a variety of complementary ingredients to create a moist and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
So go ahead and give it a try! Follow the instructions carefully and don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients. And don’t forget to pair it with some delicious side dishes like mashed potatoes and classic meatloaf sauce.
With this recipe in your repertoire, you’ll have a new go-to for those comforting meals that warm both the heart and soul. So gather your ingredients, turn on the oven, and enjoy the savory aroma of this delectable 3 Meat Meatloaf Recipe filling your kitchen. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
3 Meat Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 small onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 lb ground turkey
Instructions
- Saute onion till softened. Then add the garlic and thyme.
- In a separate bowl, combine the meats until thoroughly mixed. Add breadcrumbs and onion mixture. Mix well.
- In a small bowl, combine the milk, egg, and ketchup. Add to the meat mixture. Mix well.
- Shape into a loaf and place in a meatloaf pan.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 90 minutes or until the internal temp is 180 degrees.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
None found
Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.