Irresistible Meatloaf Recipe for Comforting Family Dinners

There’s something truly magical about meatloaf. Imagine a warm, savory slice, its edges perfectly caramelized, and the aroma wafting through your home like a cozy hug. Meatloaf evokes memories of family dinners and laughter around the table, where the simple act of sharing food becomes a celebration of togetherness.

Each bite of this classic dish is a delightful experience—juicy, tender meat mingling with rich flavors that dance on your taste buds. It’s not just food; it’s comfort at its finest. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual get-together, meatloaf is the star that never fails to shine.

I still remember the first time I made meatloaf for my friends; they were skeptical at first but ended up asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use a blend of 80% lean and 20% fat for optimal juiciness without being greasy.

• Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatloaf together while adding texture; use plain or seasoned depending on your preference.

• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together; fresh eggs work best to achieve that perfect loaf structure.

• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and sweetness; sautéing it beforehand enhances its flavor profile.

• Ketchup: A must-have for both flavor and glaze; use homemade or store-bought based on your time constraints.

• Worcestershire Sauce: A dash elevates the umami flavor; opt for low-sodium versions if you’re watching salt intake.

• Garlic Powder: For an aromatic punch; fresh garlic can be used too if you prefer a more robust flavor.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors; adjust based on personal taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while gathering all your ingredients to streamline the process.

Prepare Your Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, sautéed onions, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Shape Into Loaf: Transfer the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape it into a loaf; aim for about 2 inches thick to ensure even cooking.

Add Glaze: Brush additional ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.

Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until an internal thermometer reads 160°F (70°C).

Rest Before Slicing: Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures juicy portions that won’t crumble apart when you serve them.

Serve & Enjoy: Slice into hearty pieces and serve alongside mashed potatoes or steamed veggies—perfect comfort food!

Now you’ve got yourself a scrumptious meatloaf that’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix ingredients thoroughly, shape into a loaf, and bake for about 1 hour until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or parsley, or swap ground beef for turkey. Adding sautéed vegetables can enhance flavor and moisture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, warm in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through.

Some of my fondest memories revolve around meatloaf dinners with my family, where laughter echoed around the table and everyone’s plates were cleared.

FAQ

What can I serve with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes and green beans are classic sides that complement meatloaf beautifully.

Can I freeze meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf for up to three months without losing quality.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Check with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (70°C) at the center for safety.

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Meatloaf

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Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy ground beef with savory flavors for a dish that evokes warm memories of family gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe features a delectable blend of ingredients, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, meatloaf is versatile enough to suit everyone’s taste. Plus, it makes delicious leftovers for sandwiches!

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for glaze)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Brush additional ketchup over the top for glazing.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with your favorite sides.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 90mg