Meatloaf Recipe
Meatloaf Recipe
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Meatloaf Recipe
This classic meatloaf recipe is a perfect combination of juicy, tender beef mixed with savory seasonings and topped with a delicious ketchup glaze. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight family meal or a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy your hunger and comfort your taste buds. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s a go to dish for anyone craving hearty, homestyle cooking.
Description
A traditional meatloaf recipe has long been a favorite in households worldwide, offering a comforting meal that brings families together. This meatloaf recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, combining ground beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, and a rich blend of seasonings that enhance the flavor while keeping the meatloaf juicy and tender. Topped with a tangy ketchup glaze, this dish adds an extra layer of flavor that makes every bite a delight.
In this meatloaf recipe, we use a basic but effective method that allows for maximum flavor without unnecessary complexity. You can even prepare this dish in advance for busy days, making it perfect for meal prep. Whether you choose to make this in a loaf pan or form it into a free standing loaf, the outcome is the same: a beautifully cooked, moist, and flavorful meatloaf.
While this Meatloaf Recipe uses ground beef as the main ingredient, you can easily substitute other ground meats, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner option. For added texture and flavor, feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the mix. Additionally, the ketchup glaze can be swapped for barbecue sauce or a homemade tomato based glaze to suit your personal preferences.
This recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed by everyone, from children to adults. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of crispy roasted potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. It also makes for a great leftover option, as the meatloaf holds up well in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and moisture)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a little tang)
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for the glaze)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a baking sheet, line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. For a loaf pan, lightly grease the pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard (if using). Mix the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto your prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. If using a baking sheet, shape the mixture into a loaf shape. For a loaf pan, simply press the mixture into the pan, ensuring an even distribution.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and smoked paprika (if using). Brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it’s fully coated. You can reserve a little extra glaze to serve on the side when serving.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer is a handy tool to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through without being overdone.
- Rest and serve: After baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf into thick, even slices and serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
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Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef preferably 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and moisture
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs regular or panko
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional for a little tang
- 1/4 cup ketchup for topping
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar for the glaze
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional for a smoky flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a baking sheet, line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. For a loaf pan, lightly grease the pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard (if using). Mix the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto your prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. If using a baking sheet, shape the mixture into a loaf shape. For a loaf pan, simply press the mixture into the pan, ensuring an even distribution.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and smoked paprika (if using). Brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it’s fully coated. You can reserve a little extra glaze to serve on the side when serving.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer is a handy tool to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through without being overdone.
- Rest and serve: After baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf into thick, even slices and serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Notes
- Lean Meat Option: For a leaner version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that lean meats can dry out more easily, so adding a bit of olive oil or extra ketchup to the glaze can help maintain moisture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven, and consider turning it into a meatloaf sandwich for a delicious lunch.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This can save time if you’re prepping for a busy week.
- Vegetable Add ins: If you’d like to incorporate some veggies, finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great options. Just make sure to sauté them first to release any moisture before adding them to the meat mixture.
