Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. When HelloFresh introduced their take on this timeless dish, it quickly became a favorite among home cooks for its simplicity, flavor, and satisfying results. This article will guide you through every step of making the delicious HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutrition facts, and community tips. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients: What You Need for HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico
Before you begin cooking, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. The HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico recipe is designed for two servings, but you can easily adjust the quantities for larger portions.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount for 2 Servings | Amount for 4 Servings |
| Ground Beef | 10 oz | 20 oz |
| Sweet Potatoes | 12 oz | 24 oz |
| Parsley | ¼ oz | ½ oz |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 | 4 |
| Yellow Onion | 1 unit | 2 units |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | ¼ cup | ½ cup |
| Ketchup | 1 unit | 2 units |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 2 tbsp | 4 tbsp |
| Green Beans | 6 oz | 12 oz |
| Almonds | 1 oz | 2 oz |
| Olive Oil (not included) | 2 tsp | 4 tsp |
| Butter (not included) | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp |
| Honey (not included) | ½ oz | 1 oz |
Spices and Seasonings
- Salt: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico
This section will guide you through the process of making the HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico, from preparation to plating. Follow these steps closely to achieve the best results.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat the Oven:Set your oven to 450°F (230°C) and allow it to preheat.
- Wash and Dry Produce: Thoroughly wash all the produce under running water and pat them dry.
- Mince and Grate:
- Mince 1 garlic clove (you may receive more in the box).
- Finely chop the parsley.
- Trim the ends of the green beans.
- Halve and peel the yellow onion. Grate one half into a large bowl (save the other half for another recipe).
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatloaves
- Mix Ingredients: In the large bowl with grated onion, add minced garlic, chopped parsley, panko breadcrumbs, ground beef, and ½ tsp of salt. Season with pepper to taste.
- Form Loaves: Using your hands, mix the ingredients until well combined. Form the mixture into two 1-inch-tall meatloaves.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar with ketchup. Brush this mixture onto the top of the meatloaves.
- Bake: Place the meatloaves on a lightly oiled baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they are no longer pink in the center.
Step 3: Boil and Mash Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and Chop: Peel the sweet potatoes and chop them into ½-inch cubes.
- Boil: Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and fill with enough water to cover the potatoes by 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are easily pierced with a fork, about 10 minutes.
- Drain and Mash:After draining the potatoes, place them back into the pot. Mash them using a fork or potato masher until smooth.
- Add Flavor: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and ½ ounce of honey to the mashed potatoes. Continue mashing until fully combined. Season with
salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Roast the Green Beans
- Prepare the Green Beans: After the meatloaves have baked for about 10 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
- Toss and Roast: Add the trimmed green beans to the baking sheet.Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss everything together to ensure an even coating. Use tongs or a spoon to mix everything evenly, being careful as the baking sheet will be hot.
- Return to Oven: Place the baking sheet back in the oven and roast the green beans alongside the meatloaves for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and the green beans are slightly browned.
Step 5: Finish the Sweet Potatoes
- Reheat if Necessary: If the mashed sweet potatoes have cooled, quickly reheat them over medium-low heat.
- Final Touches: Stir the mashed sweet potatoes to ensure they are warm and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the Dish: Once the meatloaves and green beans are done, sprinkle the roasted almonds over the green beans and toss to combine.
- Serve: Divide the meatloaves between plates, alongside the sweet potato mash and green beans.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal.
Nutrition Facts: Understanding the Nutritional Value
Knowing the nutritional content of your meal is important, especially if you’re mindful of your diet. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving for the HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico recipe.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 730 kcal |
| Total Fat | 39 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Carbohydrates | 62 g |
| Sugars | 21 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 10 g |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Cholesterol | 115 mg |
| Sodium | 330 mg |
Community Tips and Praise: What Others Are Saying
The HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico recipe has garnered praise from many home cooks. Here are some common tips and reviews from the community:
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Sweetness: Some users found the honey in the mashed sweet potatoes a bit too sweet. You can reduce the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a more savory flavor.
- Add Extra Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on the green beans before roasting adds a fragrant and delicious touch.
- Extra Glaze: If you love a rich, tangy flavor, double the balsamic vinegar and ketchup glaze and brush it on the meatloaves halfway through baking.
Praise from the Community
- “Perfect Comfort Food”: Many reviewers love how this recipe takes a traditional meatloaf and elevates it with simple yet effective ingredients. The balsamic glaze is often highlighted as a standout feature.
- “Easy to Follow”: The recipe’s clear instructions make it accessible, even for those who are not experienced cooks.
- “Family Favorite”: Several users mentioned that this dish became a regular in their household meal rotation due to its popularity with both adults and children.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the ketchup, are also gluten-free.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely. While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the butter in the mashed sweet potatoes with a plant-based butter or olive oil.
Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaves and sweet potatoes in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with this meatloaf instead of sweet potatoes?
If you’re not a fan of sweet potatoes, you can serve this meatloaf with mashed regular potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try the HelloFresh Meatloaf Recipe
The HelloFresh Meatloaf Balsamico recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Its balanced flavors, easy preparation, and hearty ingredients make it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. The combination of tender meatloaf with a balsamic glaze, creamy mashed sweet potatoes, and roasted green beans offers a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe is sure to impress.
