Introduction

The meatloaf en croûte is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of traditional meatloaf with a flaky pastry crust. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, providing a satisfying and flavorful centerpiece that is sure to impress. With a blend of ground meats, herbs, and spices, wrapped in a golden crust, this dish is both comforting and visually appealing.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Ground beef: 450 g
– Ground pork: 225 g
– Onion, finely chopped: 1 medium
– Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
– Fresh parsley, chopped: 30 g
– Fresh thyme, chopped: 1 tsp
– Breadcrumbs: 100 g
– Egg: 1 large
– Salt: 1 tsp
– Pepper: ½ tsp
– Mustard: 2 tbsp
– Puff pastry: 1 sheet
– Egg wash (for brushing): 1 egg, beaten

Prep Time

The preparation time for this meatloaf en croûte is approximately 20 minutes. This allows you to gather all ingredients, chop vegetables, and combine the mixture for the filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time for this dish is about 45 minutes. In total, from prep to finishing cooking, you can expect about 1 hour and 5 minutes. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it ideal for a family gathering or leftovers for lunch.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground meat with finely chopped onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Meat Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture onto a clean surface. Shape it into a loaf, ensuring that it is uniform in thickness to cook evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is large enough to wrap around the meat loaf completely.

Step 4: Wrap the Meat Loaf

Place the shaped meat loaf in the center of the rolled puff pastry. Bring the sides of the pastry up and over the meat loaf, sealing the edges by pressing them together firmly.

Step 5: Brush with Egg

Beat an egg and brush it over the surface of the pastry to give it a golden color when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Meat Loaf

Place the wrapped meat loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pastry is golden brown and the meat is cooked through.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the meat loaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Notes

Tip 1: Meat Choices

You can use a mixture of different meats such as beef, pork, and veal for added flavor.

Tip 2: Variations

Feel free to add chopped herbs or other spices to the meat mixture for additional seasoning.

Tip 3: Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Tip 4: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Cook techniques

Binding Ingredients

To ensure the meat mixture holds together, use eggs and breadcrumbs as binding agents. The eggs provide moisture and richness, while the breadcrumbs absorb excess juices.

Layering Flavors

Enhance the meat flavor by incorporating aromatic vegetables such as onions and garlic. Sauté them before adding to the meat mixture for greater depth of flavor.

Wrapping for Texture

For a crispy exterior, wrap the meat mixture in pastry dough. This creates a contrast in texture and adds a delicious buttery flavor.

Baking to Perfection

Bake the meatloaf in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking. Using a meat thermometer can help achieve the ideal internal temperature for safety and taste.

Resting the Meatloaf

Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making every slice flavorful and moist.

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat for meatloaf?

Yes, you can use a mix of ground meats such as beef, pork, or turkey to create your preferred flavor profile.

What can I serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer preservation.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, meatloaf can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! You can replace the meat with plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas and bind with similar ingredients.

Conclusion

This meat pie en croûte is a delightful dish that combines hearty flavors and flaky pastry for a comforting meal. It is perfect for family dinners or as a delicious centerpiece for gatherings. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, it stands out as a favorite among many.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Mushroom Pie

Try substituting the meat with a mix of savory mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Spicy Chicken Pot Pie

Incorporate shredded spicy chicken along with vegetables and a creamy sauce for a flavorful twist.

Herbed Ground Beef & Cheese Roll

Mix ground beef with various herbs and cheese, then wrap it in pastry for a cheesy, savory treat.

BBQ Pulled Pork Pie

Use pulled pork mixed with barbecue sauce, topped with tangy coleslaw, for a southern-inspired dish.

Seafood and Leek Pie

Combine shrimp, scallops, and leeks in a cream sauce, then encase it in pastry for a luxurious seafood experience.