Classic Meatloaf

Ingredients

• •1¼ lb lean ground beef
• •⅔ cup plain dry breadcrumbs
• •¾ tsp salt
• •⅛ tsp ground black pepper
• •⅛ tsp garlic powder
• •¼ cup milk
• •2½ tbsp celery, finely chopped
• •2 tbsp onion, finely chopped
• •2 tbsp green bell pepper, finely chopped
• •1 large eggs
• •¼ cup tomato juice
• •1 tsp vegetable oil

Method

Adapted from the Armed Forces Recipe Service

1. 1Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. 2In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. 3Mix by hand until well blended.
4. 4Add the milk, celery, onion, green bell pepper, egg, and tomato juice to the bowl.
5. 5Mix lightly but thoroughly until just combined; do not overmix.
6. 6Shape the mixture into a loaf.
7. 7Lightly grease an 8x4-inch loaf pan with the cooking oil.
8. 8Press the loaf into the prepared pan.
9. 9Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.
10. 10Carefully drain off any excess fat or liquid that has pooled in the pan.
11. 11Continue baking at 325°F for 30 to 45 minutes more, until a food thermometer inserted into the center reads at least 160°F.
12. 12Remove the pan from the oven.
13. 13Let the loaf stand 10 minutes before slicing.
14. 14Slice the loaf into 4 servings.
15. 15Serve.