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Julia Child's Meatloaf
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Leave it to Julia to make the best meatloaf. Her secret is a combination of ground beef and turkey plus cooked rice.
serves/makes:
ready in:
2-5 hrs
2-5 hrs
6 reviews
ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups minced onions
1 cup firm bread crumbs
2 pounds ground beef
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup beef broth
2/3 cup grated Cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3 bay leaves
directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and onions and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft.
Increase the heat to medium high and cook for 2-3 more minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions just start to brown.
Combine the onions, bread crumbs, beef, turkey, rice, eggs, broth, cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, allspice, and oregano in a large bowl. Mix well, but do not overwork the mixture.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on a rimmed baking sheet. You can also cook this in an 8-cup loaf pan.
Place the bay leaves on top of the meatloaf. Place the pan in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 1 1/2 hours or until the meatloaf reaches 155 degrees F on a meat thermometer.
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for 20 minutes. Drain off any excess grease before serving.
cook's notes
This meatloaf also can be made with ground pork shoulder or sausage instead of ground turkey. In that case, eliminate the cup of cooked rice.
recipe tips
Mix the meatloaf ingredients gently to avoid overworking the mixture, which can result in a tough meatloaf.
Let the meatloaf rest for 20 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and make slicing easier.
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans.
Try different herb and spice combinations to customize the meatloaf.
To add a glaze, brush the top of the meatloaf with a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard before baking.
Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute oats for the bread crumbs in the recipe.
Make mini meatloaves by shaping the mixture into individual loaves and adjusting the baking time as needed.
common recipe questions
What makes Julia Child's meatloaf unique?
Julia Child's meatloaf combines ground beef and turkey with cooked rice for a flavorful and moist loaf.
What is the purpose of adding bread crumbs to the meatloaf?
Bread crumbs are used to help bind the ingredients together and add texture to the meatloaf.
Why use a combination of ground beef and ground turkey?
Mixing ground beef and turkey creates a lighter texture yet maintains flavor in the meatloaf.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
You can substitute fresh thyme and oregano for dried herbs in the meatloaf. The standard substitution is to use 3x as much fresh as dried. So, use 2 tablespoons fresh thyme and 1 tablespoon fresh oregano in place of 2 teaspoons dried thyme and 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
Do I have to use Cheddar cheese or can I use a different type of cheese?
You can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. You can experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, Mozzarella, Gouda, etc.
How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F on a meat thermometer.
Can I add more vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
You can add finely diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meatloaf in place of some of the onion.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
You can freeze meatloaf either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
tools needed
Skillet: For cooking the onions in butter until they are soft and slightly browned. A heavy-bottomed skillet is preferable for even cooking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring the ingredients such as the minced onions, bread crumbs, rice, salt, thyme, and allspice.
Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients except the bay leaves before forming it into a loaf shape and baking.
Rimmed Baking Sheet or 8-Cup Loaf Pan: To shape and bake the meatloaf.
Meat Thermometer: For checking the internal temperature of the meatloaf to make sure it reaches a safe 155 degrees F.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing the ingredients in the large bowl to make sure everything is combined evenly without overworking the meat.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the onions and crushing the garlic. You can also use a garlic press for the garlic.
what goes with it?
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes like Buca Di Beppo's make a comforting side that complements the meatloaf's savory flavor, adding richness and a different texture.
Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sauteed with almonds provide a crunchy, nutty contrast to the meatloaf.
Homemade BBQ Sauce: A drizzle of homemade mesquite barbecue sauce can enhance the meatloaf's flavor with tangy and sweet notes.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use leftover meatloaf to stuff bell peppers, creating a flavorful, easy meal.
Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad with a vinaigrette adds a fresh, crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the meatloaf's texture.
Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy cheddar biscuits are a perfect addition, bringing a cheesy, buttery element that pairs well with the meatloaf's savory flavors.
Mushroom Gravy: A rich mushroom and onion gravy over the meatloaf adds to its flavor and moisture, creating a more indulgent dish.
Cranberry Sauce: A small scoop of basic cranberry sauce can add a sweet and tart balance to the dish, providing a contrast to the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasonal roasted root vegetables can add earthiness and depth, complementing the meat while adding a healthy and colorful side.
nutrition data
762 calories, 49 grams fat, 28 grams carbohydrates, 49 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
August 8, 2020
This is the recipe to beat. No other like it. Try caramelizing the garlic in a tin foil pouch and purée with a fork before adding to the meat mixture.
August 6, 2020
To those who made 'adjustments', or 'left out' some ingredients (you know who you are): Why did you even bother to rate THIS recipe? You only rated your own concoction, so who cares!? :-( This was a extraordinary Meatloaf, just as it was posted.
December 6, 2019
Followed recipe and it was the best meatloaf I ever had. I was leery about the allspice but I did as the recipe said and I'm glad I did. My husband loved it and it didn't need any topping like all the other meatloaf called for. Wonderful!!!
May 31, 2013
I have made this recipe many, many times and everyone I've ever served it to loves it. I've always left out the garlic, turkey, rice and cheese (sorry) and substitute (plain) skinned breakfast sausage for the pork, as it gives a finer consistency when cooked. The next day, a slice in a sandwich with cheddar on a big hunk of french baguette... really it's like Pate... to die for. Thank you, Julia.
April 30, 2012
with a few minor adjustments this is the best meatloaf. i used all ground beef and left out the allspice and the rice, the spice measurements are perfect. fine bread crumbs work well. divided into 3, froze 2 and then baked for about 3/4 of an hour at 350 and served with Tyler's ultimate POTATO GRATIN. everyone enjoyed, fresh asparagus and roasted peppers, onions etc finished it off. a rhubarb pie is delicious as a dessert.
February 12, 2012
My friend made this meatloaf recipe last night..the meatloaf smelled so dreamy that it was difficult to wait for it to cool off. Not only was it great to inhale the aroma ,but it was the best meatloaf I ever had (and I have had many)..I am now throwing out my other meatloaf recipes and only making this. I love it so much that I am planning to cook it for my 2012 Christmas dinner..it was that divine!