You'll love this delicious meatloaf recipe that's been passed down through generations! With roots tracing back to ancient Rome and Europe, meatloaf has evolved into a beloved American classic. The key is using quality ground beef, breadcrumbs for texture, and a tangy glaze that enhances the savory flavors. Be sure to follow the easy cooking steps – from preheating the oven to letting the meatloaf rest – to achieve the perfect golden-brown crust and tender, juicy interior. This comforting dish is sure to satisfy the whole family. Now, let's dive deeper into the history and secrets behind making the ultimate meatloaf.
Key Takeaways
- A classic meatloaf recipe with simple, wholesome ingredients like ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, and flavorful seasonings is a budget-friendly and comforting meal for families.
- The recipe features a tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard that enhances the overall flavor of the meatloaf.
- Proper cooking techniques, such as thorough mixing, gentle shaping, and monitoring the internal temperature, ensure a tender and juicy meatloaf with a golden-brown crust.
- Serving the meatloaf with sides like mashed potatoes or vegetables, and garnishing it with fresh herbs, creates a visually appealing and well-balanced meal.
- Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that evokes feelings of nostalgia and togetherness, making it an ideal dish to share with family and friends.
History
Meatloaf's origins can be traced back to various cultures and cuisines throughout history. Ancient Roman chefs created early versions using spiced meats mixed with bread or nuts and baked into loaves.
During the Middle Ages, European cooks developed meatloaf recipes that incorporated leftover scraps of meat. When immigrants brought these dishes to America in the 19th century, the modern meatloaf as we know it began to take shape.
Recipes evolved to include common household ingredients like beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, and onions. Over time, different regional variations emerged, with some adding tomato sauce, while others incorporated cheese or vegetables.
Meatloaf became a beloved staple in American homes, offering a hearty, comforting meal that was both budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
Today, this classic dish continues to be a family favorite, a testament to its enduring appeal and the diverse culinary traditions that have contributed to its delicious legacy.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in households for generations. This delicious recipe combines ground beef, savory seasonings, and a tangy glaze to create a satisfying and flavorful dish.
The key to a perfect meatloaf is the balance of ingredients and the proper cooking technique. By following this recipe, you'll be able to bring the flavors together seamlessly and enjoy a homemade meal that's sure to please your family and friends. To achieve that ideal balance, it’s essential to use a combination of ground meats, seasonings, and binders like breadcrumbs or eggs for moisture. Whether serving it with a tangy glaze or alongside mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. If you love this meatloaf, you might also want to try our homemade meatballs recipe, which uses many of the same ingredients for another comforting meal. For those looking to customize their meatloaf, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add extra flavor and texture. Don’t forget to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure it slices beautifully and retains its juices. If this becomes a hit at your dinner table, our homemade meatballs recipe is another great way to enjoy these hearty, flavorful ingredients in a versatile and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they're well incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
To ensure your meatloaf is moist and flavorful, be sure not to overmix the ingredients and avoid packing the mixture too tightly into the loaf pan. Additionally, basting the meatloaf with the glaze during the cooking process can help create a delicious caramelized crust.
Cooking Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for your meatloaf until well-mixed.
Next, form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking pan.
Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour, then let it rest before serving.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
First, you'll want to preheat your oven to a toasty 375°F. This essential step ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly and develops a delightful golden-brown crust.
Get your oven ready by turning the dial to the appropriate temperature. Most ovens these days have clear digital displays, making it simple to set the precise 375°F. If your oven has knobs, simply rotate the temperature control until the dial aligns with the 375 marking.
Once the oven is preheated, you're one step closer to enjoying a mouthwatering meatloaf. This initial temperature setting lays the foundation for the rest of the cooking process, allowing the meatloaf to bake to perfection.
Keep a watchful eye on the oven as it preheats, and once it reaches the desired temperature, you can move on to the next step in the recipe.
Step 2. In a Large Bowl, Combine Ingredients
With the oven preheated to the perfect temperature, you can now move on to assembling the meatloaf. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly with your hands, ensuring that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meatloaf mixture.
Next, you'll want to shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Some people prefer to form the meatloaf into a free-standing loaf, while others like to pack it into the dish for a more compact shape.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to handle the mixture gently to avoid compacting it too much, which can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.
Once the meatloaf is shaped, you can top it with a glaze or sauce, if desired. Many people enjoy a sweet and tangy ketchup-based glaze, which can be easily made by combining ketchup, brown sugar, and a few other simple ingredients.
Step 3. Form Loaf and Place in Pan
Once the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, gently shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Avoid packing the meat too tightly, as this can result in a dense and dry meatloaf. Gently press the mixture into the desired shape, being careful not to compact it too much.
Next, place the shaped meatloaf into the prepared pan. If using a baking dish, ensure that the loaf fits snugly, leaving a small amount of space around the sides. This will help the meatloaf maintain its shape during baking.
Alternatively, if using a baking sheet, shape the meatloaf into an oblong or rectangular form, leaving a bit of space between the edges and the sides of the pan.
Once the meatloaf is in the pan, you're ready to bake it. Preheat your oven to the specified temperature and let the meatloaf cook until it's cooked through and reaches the desired internal temperature.
Step 4. Bake for 1 Hour
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your oven is ready, carefully transfer the meatloaf from the baking sheet to the center of the preheated oven. Set a timer for 1 hour and let the meatloaf bake.
As it cooks, the internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it's fully cooked through. The exterior will develop a delicious, golden-brown crust.
Halfway through the baking time, you may want to baste the meatloaf with the juices that have accumulated in the pan to keep it moist and flavorful.
Once the timer goes off, use oven mitts to remove the meatloaf from the oven. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into it.
This resting period helps the meatloaf firm up and allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender texture when you serve it.
Step 5. Let Meatloaf Rest Before Serving
After the meatloaf has finished baking, use oven mitts to carefully remove it from the oven.
Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into it. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the internal temperature to continue rising and the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf. Cutting into the meatloaf immediately after baking can cause the juices to spill out, resulting in a dry and crumbly texture.
During the resting time, the meatloaf will firm up, making it easier to slice neatly without falling apart. This also gives the flavors a chance to meld and develop further.
Once the meatloaf has rested, use a sharp knife to slice it into even portions. Serve the meatloaf warm, accompanied by your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy the delicious, juicy, and flavorful result of your patience and care in letting the meatloaf rest before digging in.
Final Thoughts
The meatloaf has now been baked to perfection, and it's time to reflect on the final product. You've put in the hard work, from carefully selecting the ingredients to expertly mixing and shaping the loaf. As you let it rest, the flavors have had a chance to meld together, creating a dish that's sure to delight.
When you're ready to serve, take a moment to admire your creation. The golden-brown crust, the tender and juicy interior – it's a testament to your culinary skills. Don't be afraid to slice into it with pride, knowing that you've crafted a meal that will bring joy to your family and friends.
As you savor each bite, take note of the balance of flavors and textures. The breadcrumbs, the herbs, the savory seasonings – they all come together in perfect harmony.
This meatloaf is more than just a dish; it's a labor of love, and you should be proud of the effort you've put into it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
You can store leftover meatloaf in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. Cover it tightly in an airtight container or wrap it in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?
You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in your meatloaf recipe. The texture and flavor will be a bit different, but it's a healthier option that can work well. Just adjust seasonings as needed.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Meatloaf?
When serving meatloaf, you'll want to pair it with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the hearty flavor of the meatloaf and create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
How Long Does Meatloaf Last in the Fridge?
Meatloaf can typically last 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly. Make sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container and reheat it thoroughly before serving. The freshness will depend on how you store it.
Can I Freeze and Reheat Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze and reheat meatloaf. Simply wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven until it's hot throughout.
Giovanni is our Chief Tasting Evangelist and the charismatic face of Mad Tasting. He inspires a sense of culinary wonder in all who encounter our brand. With boundless enthusiasm for the art of tasting and a gift for captivating audiences, Giovanni leads our immersive tasting experiences and workshops. He empowers food enthusiasts to discover the true depth and complexity of the flavors we celebrate. Whether he’s guiding a private group through a blind tasting or hosting a masterclass on the art of pairing, Giovanni’s infectious passion for the culinary world is the driving force behind our mission to share the extraordinary.
