Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s beloved for its rich flavors, hearty texture, and versatility. A perfectly baked meatloaf can bring back nostalgic memories of family dinners and Sunday suppers. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, meatloaf remains a satisfying and wholesome dish.

In this recipe guide, you’ll learn how to make a tender and juicy meatloaf using simple ingredients, tips for ensuring the best results, and several variations to suit your tastes. This 2000-word guide will take you through each step, from selecting the right meat to crafting the perfect sauce glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking. Let’s get started on creating the ultimate meatloaf.

Equipment

To make this meatloaf, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium frying pan (to sauté onions)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches) or baking sheet
• Meat thermometer (optional)
• Aluminum foil (for covering the meatloaf during baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you begin preparing the meatloaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating ensures even cooking and helps the meatloaf bake perfectly in the center.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a medium frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic. This step ensures the onions and garlic impart their flavors evenly throughout the meatloaf.

Once the onions and garlic are cooked, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool slightly before adding them to the meat mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Ground pork (or your choice of ground meat)
• Sautéed onions and garlic
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Milk
• Worcestershire sauce
• Dijon mustard
• Dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper

Use clean hands or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together. Be gentle and mix only until everything is combined. Overmixing can result in a dense meatloaf. The goal is to create a well-blended mixture that holds together but remains tender when baked.

If you prefer a finer texture, you can soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for 5 minutes before mixing them with the meat. This step makes the meatloaf extra moist.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape it into a loaf by hand and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Using a loaf pan helps the meatloaf hold its shape, while a freeform loaf on a baking sheet allows for more crispy edges.

Press the meat mixture down gently to ensure even baking but avoid compacting it too much. If you want to drain off excess fat during cooking, you can create a small trench in the center of the loaf, which will help channel the fat to the sides.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients:

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Apple cider vinegar
• Dijon mustard (optional)
• Smoked paprika (optional)

This sweet and tangy glaze adds a beautiful caramelized finish to the meatloaf. It enhances the flavor and gives the meatloaf its signature glossy top. If you prefer a more savory glaze, reduce the brown sugar and add more mustard for a tangy kick.

Step 6: Glaze the Meatloaf

Spread about half of the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the shaped meatloaf using a spoon or pastry brush. The glaze will begin to caramelize as the meatloaf bakes, creating a delicious, sticky coating.

Reserve the remaining glaze for later in the baking process, when you’ll add an additional layer for extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and thickness of the loaf. To ensure that the meatloaf cooks evenly, check it halfway through baking. If the top starts to darken too much, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and add the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Continue baking uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the meatloaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the meatloaf is ready.

Step 8: Rest the Meatloaf

Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. If you slice the meatloaf too early, it may fall apart, and you’ll lose some of its juiciness.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

After the meatloaf has rested, slice it into thick pieces and serve alongside your favorite sides. Classic meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a green salad. The savory, rich flavor of the meatloaf combined with the sweet tang of the glaze makes for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

1. Choose the Right Meat: Using a combination of ground beef and pork adds flavor and ensures a tender, juicy meatloaf. You can also use ground turkey or veal if you prefer a leaner meatloaf. Avoid using ground beef that is too lean (less than 85% lean) as it can result in a dry loaf.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Cooking the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture ensures they release their flavors and don’t remain raw in the loaf. This step adds depth to the overall flavor.
4. Use a Thermometer: To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked without overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ideal temperature for a meatloaf is 160°F (71°C).
5. Customize the Glaze: The glaze can be adjusted to your taste preferences. For a spicier glaze, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes. For a more savory glaze, use less sugar and more mustard.
6. Resting is Key: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices stay inside the meatloaf, keeping it moist and flavorful.

Meatloaf Variations

While the classic meatloaf is always a hit, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe based on your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

For a cheesy surprise, add a layer of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone) in the center of the meatloaf. Simply press half of the meat mixture into the loaf pan, add a layer of cheese, and top with the remaining meat mixture before baking.

2. BBQ Meatloaf

For a smoky and sweet twist, substitute the ketchup glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce. Brush the BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf halfway through baking for a caramelized, flavorful crust.

3. Italian Meatloaf

For an Italian-inspired version, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 1/4 cup of tomato paste to the meat mixture. Serve with marinara sauce and sprinkle with fresh basil for a delicious Italian twist.

4. Spicy Meatloaf

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips: To reheat, place slices of meatloaf in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices, though this may result in a slightly drier texture.

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf recipe offers a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. The combination of beef and pork, savory seasonings, and the sweet-tangy glaze creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick with the traditional version or explore the various meatloaf variations, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Enjoy your homemade meatloaf with your favorite side dishes, and don’t forget to experiment with your own twist on this comforting classic!

Yield: 6

Meatloaf Recipe

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Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that's beloved for its rich flavors, hearty texture, and versatility. A perfectly baked meatloaf can bring back nostalgic memories of family dinners and Sunday suppers. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, meatloaf remains a satisfying and wholesome dish.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour

Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Meatloaf:
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
• ½ pound ground pork (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Glaze:
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
   
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything together until well combined, but avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
   
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Press down gently to create a smooth surface.
   
4. Make the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar (or Worcestershire sauce) until smooth.
   
5. Glaze the Meatloaf:
   Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
   
6. Bake:
   Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). About 10-15 minutes before the meatloaf is finished cooking, spread the remaining glaze over the top for a glossy, flavorful finish.
   
7. Rest and Serve:
   Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist.

Notes

Meat Blend: Using a combination of ground beef and ground pork adds extra flavor and tenderness, but you can use all ground beef if you prefer.

Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs work well to bind the meatloaf and keep it from falling apart.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of green beans for a hearty meal.