Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend for moisture)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon beef gelatin powder (optional, for better binding)
- 2 tablespoons beef bone broth (optional, for added flavor and moisture)
- Butter or beef tallow (for greasing the loaf pan)
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or beef tallow to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, and any optional ingredients (salt, pepper, beef gelatin powder, and bone broth). Using your hands or a spatula, mix until everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture will be quite wet and sticky, which is normal.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer the beef mixture into the greased loaf pan. Use your hands or a spatula to press the mixture down evenly, ensuring it fills the pan and is compact to help it hold together while baking.
- Bake the Beef Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the loaf. You’ll know it’s done when the top is nicely browned and a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C).
- Cool and Slice: Once the beef bread is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the loaf firm up, making it easier to slice. After cooling, carefully remove the beef bread from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Slice it into even pieces, similar to how you would slice traditional bread.
- Serving Suggestions: This beef bread can be enjoyed in many ways. Use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches, toast it in a pan with some butter, or simply enjoy it plain. It’s also excellent for soaking up the juices from a steak or roast.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices by wrapping them in parchment paper and placing them in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply pop a slice into the toaster or warm it in a skillet.