It sounds like you’re asking for a recipe for an unloaf, which is likely a fun twist on the classic loaf-based dish. An “unloaf” typically refers to a deconstructed version of a loaf or bread recipe, where the ingredients are transformed into something similar but with a different presentation or form.
Here’s a simple Unloaf Meatloaf recipe that keeps the hearty, comforting flavors of a traditional meatloaf but in a different, more laid-back format. It’s essentially a meatloaf baked in a muffin tin, forming individual portions that are easy to serve.
Unloaf Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mixture of beef, pork, and veal)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, allowing them to soak for a few minutes. Then add the egg, ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. If you’re using cheese, add that in as well.
- Mix and Shape: Using your hands or a spoon, mix all the ingredients together until evenly combined. You can shape the mixture into small individual portions using a muffin tin or a baking dish.
- Form the Unloaf: If you’re using a muffin tin, scoop the meat mixture into each muffin cup (about 3/4 full). Alternatively, if you want to make a large “unloaf,” spread the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, shaping it into a mound rather than a typical loaf.
- Bake: Bake for about 20-25 minutes for muffin-sized unloafs or 30-35 minutes for a larger unloaf, or until the meat is fully cooked (an internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C). Halfway through baking, top with a little extra ketchup if you want that classic glaze.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a full meal.
- You can also serve the unloafs in sandwich buns for a fun, casual meatloaf sandwich option.
Tips:
- You can customize the “unloaf” by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for added flavor and texture.
- Feel free to experiment with sauces like BBQ sauce or a tangy mustard glaze for a different twist.
This “unloaf” version of meatloaf gives you all the flavor and texture of the classic dish but with a fun, modern presentation! Enjoy!