Meatloaf with onion sauce

Minced meatloaf with onion sauce - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Welcome to the savory world of cooking! Today I will present you with a classic recipe for minced meatloaf with onion gravy, a dish that brings back memories of Sunday family dinners and will delight any table. This main dish is not only nutritious but also full of flavor, perfect for a cozy dinner or to enjoy at lunch.

The history of this dish is fascinating, as meatloaf, also known as 'gehaktbrood', has spread across many cultures and is prized for its versatility. It can be customized with various ingredients and spices, making it a dish that can satisfy the most varied tastes. Now let's get to work!

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:
- 1 kg mixed mincemeat (pork and beef or any other favorite combination)
- 2 eggs
- 120 g breadcrumbs
- 1-2 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1/2 bunch parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 sprigs thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 sprig rosemary (fresh or dried)
- 1 onion (finely chopped or grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the onion sauce:
- 3 onions (julienned)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 40% of a beef cube dissolved in 200 ml water
- Splash of red wine
- A little thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by preheating the oven to 170 °C. It's important to have all the ingredients to hand, so prepare a large bowl and gather the necessary ingredients. If you want more flavor, you can fry the onion before adding it to the meatloaf mixture.

Step 2: Preparing the meatloaf mixture

In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, crushed garlic and onion. If you have chosen to fry the onion beforehand, make sure it has cooled slightly before adding it to the meat. Add the chopped parsley, thyme and rosemary. Mix all ingredients well until evenly combined. This is where you can adjust the salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Form the meatloaf

Once the mixture is homogenized, remove the meat from the bowl and shape it into a loaf. This step is essential to get the perfect texture. You can use a cheesecake pan or a heat-proof container, but make sure the shape is well greased with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Toasting the meat loaf

In a frying pan, melt a knob of butter or add a little oil. Toast the meatloaf on each side until you get a nice golden crust. This step will not only improve the appearance, but also intensify the flavors. Once the meat is toasted, transfer it to the prepared pan, adding a few small cubes of butter on top for extra flavor. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.

Step 5: Making the onion sauce

While the meatloaf is baking, it's time to prepare the onion sauce. Use the same pan you roasted the meat in, keeping the delicious flavors. Add the julienned onions and fry over medium heat, stirring constantly, until soft and slightly caramelized. Then add the flour and stir well, allowing to cook for a few minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Deglaze the sauce with a splash of red wine (or more if you want a more intense flavor) and add the thyme and bay leaf. Simmer gently, then add the beef cube dissolved in the water. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes, then remove from the heat. The onion sauce will add a sophisticated touch and rich flavor to your dish.

Step 6: Serving

Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help retain the juiciness. Serve with a side of plain potatoes, mayonnaise and a white garlic coleslaw. This combination will take your dish to the next level!

Useful tips and variations

- For a spicier variation, add some chili pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
- If you want more vegetables, add grated carrots or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture.
- For a creamier sauce, add a little cream or Greek yogurt at the end.

Nutrition facts

One portion of meatloaf (about 150 g) contains on average:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrate: 15 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken mince?
Yes, chicken is a leaner choice and can be used successfully, but you will need to adjust the seasoning as it has a milder taste.

2. How can I store meatloaf?
Meat loaf can be refrigerated for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

3. What other toppings can I serve?
This meatloaf goes perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

I hope this recipe will bring joy in your kitchen and on your table! Cooking is an art, and every dish is an opportunity to explore new flavors and combinations. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 kg mixed minced meat (pork and beef or as you prefer) 2 eggs 120g breadcrumbs 1-2 cloves of garlic 1/2 bunch of parsley 2 sprigs of thyme (or dried) 1 sprig of rosemary (or dried) 1 onion salt and pepper For the onion sauce: 3 onions 1 tablespoon of flour 40% of a beef cube dissolved in 200 ml of water a splash of red wine a little thyme