When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the heartwarming appeal of meatloaf. This classic dish has been a staple in households across generations, offering nostalgic memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. Believed to have its origins in Europe, meatloaf became especially popular in the United States during the Great Depression. It was a budget-friendly way to stretch ingredients while creating a satisfying meal. Today, meatloaf remains a beloved dish, cherished for its versatility, simplicity, and downright deliciousness.
Whether it's served with creamy mashed potatoes, alongside roasted vegetables, or between slices of soft bread as a sandwich, meatloaf is the go-to meal that warms both your heart and your stomach. Let's walk through a foolproof recipe to recreate this comforting classic at home.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect meatloaf (serves 6-8):
For the meatloaf:
- 2 pounds of ground beef (80% lean works best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds amazing flavor)
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. If you’re chopping and mincing your onion and garlic, now’s the time to do it!
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese if using. Use your hands for the best results—just enough to mix without overworking the meat, which can make the loaf dense.
Step 3: Form the Loaf
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape directly on the lined baking sheet or transfer the mixture to the loaf pan. Press gently to remove any air pockets while keeping the shape intact.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, saving the rest for later.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the meatloaf, brush on the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is helpful for accuracy.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making every slice tender and moist.
Tips and Variations
- Go lean or mix it up: While ground beef is traditional, you can mix it with ground turkey, pork, or even veal for a different flavor profile.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutrition by adding finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the mix.
- Cheesy twist: Stuff the center of the loaf with shredded mozzarella or cheddar before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or roasted carrots. For a lighter option, serve it with a green salad dressed with vinaigrette. And if you have leftovers, make a killer meatloaf sandwich with toasted bread, mayo, and crisp lettuce.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Slice and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Frozen meatloaf will keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, wrap slices in foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
There's something so comforting about the simplicity of meatloaf. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easily adaptable to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, meatloaf can handle it all. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it has stood the test of time as one of the ultimate comfort foods. Enjoy!
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