Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe
Highlighted under: Hearty House Classics
When I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is my Old Fashioned Meatloaf. It’s the kind of meal that evokes warm family memories and fills the kitchen with tantalizing smells. I love how simple it is to prepare yet how satisfying it is to eat. Each bite is a hearty combination of seasoned beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, topped with a tangy ketchup glaze that makes my taste buds sing. This meatloaf is perfect for busy weeknights or as a classic weekend dish, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
My journey to the perfect meatloaf began with countless trials in the kitchen, reminiscing about my grandmother's recipe that always brought the family together. I found that blending beef with fresh herbs and a little Worcestershire sauce added depth of flavor that I had been missing in previous attempts. Ensuring that the meat is not over-mixed helped retain moisture, resulting in a tender loaf that I couldn’t resist.
The key to my meatloaf's irresistible appeal is the ketchup glaze. I like to mix a little brown sugar with the ketchup for a sweeter topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s an added touch that transforms the meatloaf into a centerpiece worthy of any family meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The nostalgic flavors that transport you back to childhood
- A tender and juicy texture that is simply irresistible
- Versatile leftovers, great in sandwiches or served with mashed potatoes
Understanding Ingredients
The blend of ground beef and breadcrumbs is essential for achieving the perfect meatloaf texture. The beef provides the hearty base, while the breadcrumbs absorb moisture, preventing the meatloaf from becoming too dense. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used, but be aware that you may need to adjust cooking times as they tend to dry out more quickly.
Onions and garlic are not just for flavor; they also add moisture and sweetness to the meatloaf. For a slightly different taste, consider using shallots or leeks. Fresh parsley brightens the dish, both in flavor and appearance. You could substitute it with thyme or oregano for a more robust herb profile.
Baking Tips
Proper baking is key to a successful meatloaf. Always preheat your oven to ensure that the meatloaf cooks evenly. If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking process; this will prevent burning while allowing it to cook through.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). This will guarantee that it's fully cooked and safe to eat without over-drying. Remember to let it rest for ten minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, which keeps each slice moist and flavorful.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth experience.
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Make sure to double-check your ingredients list to ensure you have everything you need!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a successful meatloaf!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, chopped parsley, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and eggs. Mix until just combined.
Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf with your favorite sides!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or grated carrots to the meat mixture. Always let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it moist.
Storing and Reheating
Once your meatloaf has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider slicing it and freezing individual portions, which can last up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
If you prefer to reheat slices in the microwave, place them on a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second increments until warm, being careful not to overcook, which can lead to dryness.
Serving Suggestions
Old Fashioned Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans, which balances the richness of the meatloaf.
For a delicious twist, consider making meatloaf sandwiches with any leftovers. Layer thin slices between crusty bread with your favorite condiments, and enjoy a hearty lunch. You can even turn it into a meatloaf skillet meal by cubing and frying the leftover meatloaf with potatoes and vegetables for breakfast or brunch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version, although it may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
→ How can I prevent the meatloaf from being dry?
Make sure not to over-mix the ingredients and add moisture through milk or additional vegetables like grated zucchini.
→ What can I serve with meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad are great accompaniments.
→ Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe
When I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is my Old Fashioned Meatloaf. It’s the kind of meal that evokes warm family memories and fills the kitchen with tantalizing smells. I love how simple it is to prepare yet how satisfying it is to eat. Each bite is a hearty combination of seasoned beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, topped with a tangy ketchup glaze that makes my taste buds sing. This meatloaf is perfect for busy weeknights or as a classic weekend dish, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Created by: Elodie Brooks
Recipe Type: Hearty House Classics
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, chopped parsley, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and eggs. Mix until just combined.
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or grated carrots to the meat mixture. Always let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it moist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g