Homemade "TV dinner" Meal

There's something undeniably comforting about the concept of a Cozy Classic TV Dinner. For many, it evokes fond memories of family gatherings, evenings spent together in front of the television, and the warmth that only a home-cooked meal can provide. This recipe is not just about sustenance; it encapsulates a slice of Americana, bringing together all the elements of traditional comfort food in a single, satisfying spread.

Homemade "TV dinner" Meal

Revisit nostalgia with this Cozy Classic TV Dinner, a heartwarming meal featuring savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, and a delightful dessert. Perfect for busy families, this simple recipe combines traditional comfort food flavors while creating new memories. Gather around the table and enjoy the warmth of home-cooked goodness. Share in the joy of family meals - you won't want to miss out! #ComfortFood #TVDinner #FamilyMeals #Nostalgia #CookingAtHome

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

1 pound ground beef

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced

1/4 cup butter

1/2 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Green Beans:

2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dessert:

1 cup apple pie filling

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

- Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish. Top with extra ketchup for a glaze.

- Bake for 1 hour or until cooked through (internal temperature should be 160°F / 70°C).

Make the Mashed Potatoes:

- While the meatloaf is baking, place the diced potatoes in a pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender (about 15-20 minutes).

- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth. Set aside.

Prepare the Green Beans:

- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

- Add the trimmed green beans and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Make the Dessert:

- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

- Roll out the puff pastry and place it in a small baking dish. Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the bottom.

- Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon on top of the filling. Cover with another layer of puff pastry and cut slits for steam to escape.

- Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

Assemble the TV Dinner:

- Once everything is cooked, cut the meatloaf into slices and arrange on a plate alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes and a portion of sautéed green beans.

- Serve with a slice of warm apple pie for dessert.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 4