Pat Nixon's Meatloaf
Richard Nixon’s political career was one of great highs and devastating lows, but his love for the simple comfort of meatloaf remained constant. Pat Nixon’s classic meatloaf recipe not only provided a favorite meal for the president but also offered him a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of political life. Today, this recipe allows us to connect with a slice of history while enjoying the warmth of a timeless dish.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional
- 1/2 cup ketchup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the loaf pan, pressing it down evenly. Smooth out the top and spread the 1/2 cup of ketchup over the surface of the meatloaf.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Video
Notes
- For a heartier flavor, you can substitute ground pork or veal for half of the beef.
- Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a true presidential meal.
- Leftovers can be made into sandwiches for a delicious lunch the next day.