Classic Meatloaf

This classic meatloaf is a true comfort dish, bringing together a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with simple but flavorful ingredients. It’s topped with a savory layer of ketchup that adds a perfect tangy glaze, making every bite a delight.

Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or just a side of your favorite salad, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. It’s easy to make, filling, and comforting, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
1/4 cup ketchup (for topping)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and brown sugar (if using).
Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until well combined.
Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 80 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Classic Meatloaf Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to comfort food, there’s one dish that always stands out as a true family favorite, meatloaf. This hearty, flavorful dish has been a staple in homes across the globe for generations, providing a satisfying meal that brings people together. While meatloaf’s exact origins are hard to pinpoint, it has become synonymous with home-cooked, no-fuss meals. This classic meatloaf recipe is not only simple and delicious, but it’s also an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner.

Why This Classic Meatloaf Recipe Is Perfect for Your Next Meal

The beauty of a great meatloaf lies in its versatility and its ability to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, a large family, or meal prepping for the week ahead, meatloaf is an ideal choice. It’s packed with flavor, moist from the blend of ground beef and pork, and it comes with a variety of options for customization to suit any palate.

Meatloaf can be paired with virtually any side dish, from mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables to a fresh salad or rice. It’s also easy to scale up or down depending on the number of people you’re serving, making it a reliable dish for large gatherings or intimate family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Classic Meatloaf Recipe

The ingredients for this meatloaf recipe are simple and easy to find, but each one plays an important role in building the depth of flavor and ensuring a moist, delicious loaf. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:

Ground Beef: Ground beef is the primary protein in this dish. You’ll want to use a mix of lean and fatty ground beef to get the right texture and flavor. Too lean, and the meatloaf will dry out. Too fatty, and it may be greasy.
Ground Pork: The addition of ground pork brings richness and moisture to the meatloaf, which helps keep it tender and juicy. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, but ground pork gives the most traditional flavor.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the meat mixture. It’s an essential component for building flavor in any meatloaf.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds an aromatic and savory element that complements the meat mixture perfectly.
Breadcrumbs: These help to bind the meatloaf together and provide structure while keeping it tender. You can use regular breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed crackers for a different texture.
Milk: Milk moistens the breadcrumbs and helps form the perfect consistency in the meatloaf mixture.
Ketchup: Ketchup not only adds flavor but also serves as the glaze that tops the meatloaf. It creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce is essential for adding an umami depth to the flavor profile of the meatloaf.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and dried thyme are the basic seasonings that elevate the flavor of the meat. You can add more herbs, such as oregano or basil, depending on your personal preference.

Why Meatloaf is a Great Choice for Meal Prep

One of the reasons meatloaf has remained a favorite dish for so long is because it’s incredibly easy to prepare in advance. You can make a large batch of meatloaf on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and you can easily reheat individual portions. Additionally, meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it an excellent option for preparing meals ahead of time.

To freeze meatloaf, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

How to Customize Your Classic Meatloaf Recipe

While this classic meatloaf recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways you can tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own:

Add Vegetables: If you want to sneak in some extra vegetables, try adding finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meat mixture. These vegetables will add moisture and nutrition without altering the overall flavor.
Use Different Meats: While beef and pork are the traditional options, you can experiment with other ground meats like ground turkey, chicken, or lamb. Keep in mind that lean meats may need a little extra fat to prevent the loaf from becoming dry.
Cheese: Adding a little shredded cheese to the meatloaf mixture will melt into the meat, creating a rich and savory experience. Consider sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.
Seasonings and Spices: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mix. Alternatively, add dried herbs like rosemary, oregano, or sage for an earthier flavor.

How to Serve Classic Meatloaf

This classic meatloaf recipe is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your meatloaf:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing with meatloaf, mashed potatoes add a creamy and comforting element to the meal. You can make traditional mashed potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts, complement the savory flavors of the meatloaf and add a healthy touch to the meal.
Salad: For a lighter side dish, consider a simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing. This adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
Green Beans or Steamed Vegetables: Green beans are another classic side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. You can steam or sauté them with garlic and butter for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Meatloaf

Here are a few tips to ensure your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time:

Do Not Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
Use a Loaf Pan: A loaf pan helps the meatloaf cook evenly and maintain its shape. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape the meat into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender slice.
Check the Temperature: To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (71°C) before being removed from the oven.

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf recipe is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals for the week, meatloaf offers a delicious and satisfying option. With its rich, savory flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy. So, next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and hearty, try this meatloaf recipe, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home as it has in so many others.

By following this simple recipe and making a few personalized tweaks, you’ll have a meatloaf that’s as delicious as it is comforting. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and share it with loved ones for a meal that’s full of warmth and nostalgia.

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