Meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that’s been gracing dinner tables for generations. Whether it’s served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad, this hearty and flavorful dish never fails to satisfy. Its combination of seasoned ground meat, binder, and savory toppings makes it a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. If you’re looking for a classic, no-fuss recipe that delivers delicious results, this homemade meatloaf is just what you need.
What Makes Meatloaf So Special?
Meatloaf is more than just a simple loaf of ground meat; it’s a meal with deep flavors and rich textures. The beauty of meatloaf lies in its adaptability. You can make it with beef, pork, turkey, or a combination of meats. The seasonings and breadcrumbs help hold everything together, creating a perfectly moist and tender loaf that’s seasoned just right.
The most iconic part of meatloaf, however, is the glaze. Whether it’s a tangy tomato-based sauce or a sweet barbecue glaze, this finishing touch is what takes meatloaf to the next level, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this classic meatloaf recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs (680g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. If you prefer a crispy crust all around, you can freeform the meatloaf on a baking sheet instead of using a loaf pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork combination) with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. If you’re using herbs like oregano and thyme, add those in as well.
Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet. If it feels too dry, add a splash more milk.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Once the meatloaf mixture is combined, transfer it into the prepared loaf pan and gently press it down to evenly distribute the mixture. If you’re baking on a sheet pan, shape the mixture into a loaf form, making sure the sides are even.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The meatloaf should be firm and browned on the outside.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by combining the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and brush the glaze generously over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and form a shiny, flavorful coating.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice more tender and juicy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad make perfect companions to this classic dish. Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra ketchup or sauce on the side for dipping!
Why Make Meatloaf at Home?
Making meatloaf at home is not only incredibly easy, but it also gives you the ability to control the ingredients and flavors. By using fresh meat, quality breadcrumbs, and homemade glaze, you can create a much more flavorful and moist meatloaf than store-bought varieties. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples and feed a family on a budget.
Meatloaf is also a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers can be turned into sandwiches, tacos, or even chopped up and added to pasta for a quick and tasty meal the next day.
Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
- Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through without drying out is by using a meat thermometer. An internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) ensures it’s perfectly cooked.
- Don’t overmix the meat: Overworking the meat can lead to a tough meatloaf. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
- Add moisture: The milk, egg, and Worcestershire sauce add moisture to the meatloaf, but if you want it extra tender, consider adding a bit of grated cheese or some finely chopped veggies (like bell peppers or mushrooms) to the mix.
- Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest after baking so the juices can settle. This will help keep the meatloaf juicy when you slice it.
- Get creative with the glaze: While ketchup is the traditional topping, you can experiment with different glazes. BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a combination of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar can bring new flavors to your meatloaf.
Conclusion
Meatloaf is a simple yet delicious dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. This classic recipe combines flavorful ground meat, seasonings, and a sweet-and-savory glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for yourself, meatloaf is always a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious aroma of homemade comfort food filling your kitchen!
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