You'll love this delicious meatloaf recipe that's perfect for feeding your whole family! Originating from European immigrants in the late 1800s, meatloaf has become a beloved American classic. The key is using a mix of ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and flavorful seasonings. Bake it to perfection, then add a tasty tomato sauce glaze for a wow-worthy crust. Serve it up with mashed potatoes and veggies for a hearty, comforting meal. Meatloaf also makes killer leftovers – you can enjoy it in sandwiches all week long. Read on to discover the full step-by-step guide to mastering this timeless dish.
Key Takeaways
- A classic meatloaf recipe that features ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, eggs, and a variety of seasonings to create a delicious, satisfying meal for families.
- The meatloaf can be customized with additional ingredients like diced onions, garlic, and a tangy tomato sauce glaze to enhance the flavor.
- Serving suggestions include pairing the meatloaf with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad for a well-balanced, comforting meal.
- The meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it a convenient and versatile option for meal planning.
- The meatloaf is a nutritious dish that is high in protein, moderate in calories, and can be modified to suit different dietary preferences or constraints.
History
According to culinary historians, meatloaf has its origins in the late 19th century, when European immigrants brought their treasured recipes to the United States. These old-world dishes often featured ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, which were then baked into a loaf shape.
As meatloaf gained popularity across the country, home cooks began experimenting with different flavor combinations, incorporating regional ingredients and personal touches.
Throughout the 20th century, meatloaf became a staple of American cuisine, appearing on dinner tables from coast to coast. Its versatility and comforting qualities made it a favorite among families, who could easily customize the recipe to suit their tastes.
Today, meatloaf remains a beloved classic, a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, homestyle cooking. Whether served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a tangy glaze, this humble dish continues to bring people together, offering a taste of nostalgia and tradition in every bite.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that's beloved by many. It's a simple and versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. This delicious meatloaf recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Meatloaf is a great meal to prepare in advance, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to serve it. It's also a budget-friendly option, as it uses affordable ingredients that can be easily found in your local grocery store.
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients together until they're well-incorporated.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
Bake the meatloaf for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf!
Cooking Steps
First, preheat your oven to 350°F.
Next, mix the ground meat and form it into a loaf, then bake it.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Alright, let's get started with preheating the oven. You'll want to set it to 350°F. This is the perfect temperature for baking the meatloaf, ensuring it cooks through evenly without burning the outside.
Once you've turned the oven on, give it a few minutes to reach the desired temperature. You can use this time to gather the rest of your ingredients and prepare the meatloaf mixture.
Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so you may need to adjust the cook time accordingly. Use an oven thermometer if you're unsure about your oven's accuracy. It's always better to be safe and check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to make sure it's cooked through.
Once the oven is preheated, you can go ahead and pop the meatloaf pan right in. Set a timer so you don't forget about it.
Before you know it, your house will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of a delicious homemade meatloaf!
Step 2. Mix Ground Meat
Gather the ground meat in a large mixing bowl. You'll want to use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for the perfect texture and flavor.
Crack a couple of eggs into the bowl and add some breadcrumbs, milk, and your favorite seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix everything together with your hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed, but be careful not to overmix. You want the meatloaf to stay nice and tender.
Once the mixture is ready, you can shape it into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Remember to spray the dish with nonstick cooking spray first to prevent sticking.
Now your meatloaf is ready for the oven! Bake it for about an hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade meatloaf masterpiece!
Step 3. Form Loaf and Bake
After mixing the ground meat, it's time to shape it into a loaf and bake it. Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with some cooking spray or oil.
Take the seasoned ground meat and gently shape it into a loaf, being careful not to pack it too tightly. This will help the meatloaf stay moist and tender as it cooks.
Once the loaf is formed, use a spoon or your hands to smooth the top and sides, creating an even shape. If you'd like, you can score the top of the loaf with a knife, making shallow cuts across the surface. This helps the glaze or sauce soak in beautifully.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slide the baking dish into the oven and bake the meatloaf for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
About halfway through the baking time, you can brush the top of the loaf with a glaze or sauce of your choice, if desired. When it's done, let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Step 4. Glaze Meatloaf With Tomato Sauce
To enhance the flavor and appearance of your meatloaf, you can glaze it with a simple tomato sauce during the baking process.
Simply combine a can of diced tomatoes, a tablespoon of brown sugar, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
About 30 minutes before your meatloaf is finished baking, brush the top and sides with the tomato sauce mixture. This will create a beautiful, glistening glaze that adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to balance the richness of the meat.
Be sure to baste the meatloaf a few times during the remaining baking time, allowing the sauce to caramelize and create a delicious crust.
The tomato glaze not only enhances the visual appeal of your meatloaf, but it also infuses the dish with an irresistible flavor that your family is sure to love.
Give this easy technique a try for your next meatloaf night!
Step 5. Let Meatloaf Rest Before Slicing
Once you've finished glazing your meatloaf with the delectable tomato sauce, it's important to let the dish rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This brief resting period allows the meatloaf to firm up and the flavors to meld together.
It's a crucial step that will ensure your meatloaf slices neatly and retains its juicy, flavorful texture. During the resting time, the internal temperature of the meatloaf will continue to rise slightly, reaching the perfect doneness.
This resting period gives the meat a chance to relax and reabsorb any juices that may have escaped during the cooking process. Once the meatloaf has rested for about 5-10 minutes, you can confidently slice into it, revealing a beautifully cooked and moist interior.
Letting the meatloaf rest before serving is the finishing touch that will make your dish an absolute delight for your family and friends to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, this meatloaf recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that's sure to please the whole family. The key is allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing, as this lets the flavors meld and the internal temperature reach the safe zone.
Once it's had a chance to settle, you can slice into the tender, juicy meatloaf with confidence, knowing you've created a delicious meal.
While meatloaf may seem like a basic dish, this recipe elevates it with a blend of savory spices and a tangy glaze. The result is a hearty, flavor-packed main course that's perfect for a cozy family dinner.
And don't forget the leftovers – meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches or can be repurposed in various ways throughout the week. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting satisfaction of a homemade meatloaf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Beef?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground turkey for beef in this recipe. Turkey is a leaner option and will result in a lighter, healthier meatloaf. Just be sure to adjust seasoning accordingly to maintain the desired flavor.
How Can I Make the Meatloaf Moist and Tender?
To make your meatloaf moist and tender, add some breadcrumbs, milk, and an egg to the ground turkey. This helps bind the mixture and prevents it from drying out during baking. Don't overmix the ingredients, and be gentle when shaping the loaf.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Meatloaf?
To complement the hearty meatloaf, you can't go wrong with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. These classic pairings will create a well-balanced and comforting meal for your family.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf for Later?
Yes, you can easily freeze leftover meatloaf for later enjoyment. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It'll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How Do I Prevent the Meatloaf From Crumbling?
To prevent meatloaf from crumbling, use a combination of bread crumbs, eggs, and milk or a binder like ground oats. This will help the ingredients stick together and hold their shape when sliced. Don't overmix the meatloaf batter.
