Meatloaf with Pasta Recipe

Hello, everyone! Today, I’m excited to share a simple and hearty recipe: Meatloaf served with pasta.

This dish is comforting and surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re a beginner.

Ingredients:

• 500g ground beef or pork (use pre-ground or grind your own)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or basil
• 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara
• 300g pasta of your choice
• Grated cheese (like Parmesan) for topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and any herbs you’re using. Mix well until everything is combined evenly.

2. Shape the Meatloaf:
   Take the mixture and shape it into a loaf on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil. This shape helps it cook evenly and keeps the juices inside, making it tender and flavourful.

3. Bake the Meatloaf:
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the meatloaf for about 30-40 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. For extra flavour, brush the top with a little tomato sauce before baking.

4. Cook the Pasta:
   While the meatloaf is baking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

5. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   Heat the remaining tomato sauce in a saucepan until warmed through. You can add a pinch of salt, pepper, or even a little sugar to balance the acidity if desired.

6. Serve:
   Slice the meatloaf and serve it over the pasta. Pour warm tomato sauce over everything, and sprinkle grated cheese on top.

This Meatloaf with Pasta is an ideal meal for beginners because it’s straightforward and versatile. The protein-rich meatloaf combined with pasta makes a filling meal, perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a great recipe to start your home-cooking journey. Enjoy!