Oh boy, let me tell you about my classic meatloaf recipe! It’s one of those dishes that just brings me back to my childhood, filled with cozy family dinners and the comforting aroma wafting through the house. Meatloaf might seem simple, but trust me, it’s packed with flavor and love. This recipe is super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want that hearty, nostalgic meal. I love how versatile it is—you can add your favorite herbs or even some veggies to the mix. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, and there’s nothing quite like slicing into a perfectly baked meatloaf, ready to be served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of green beans. Now, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the heart of your meatloaf! I prefer a good, high-quality beef for a rich flavor.
- 1/2 lb ground pork: The pork adds a bit of moisture and a lovely depth to the meatloaf—don’t skip this!
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together while giving your meatloaf that perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup milk: A splash of milk keeps the meatloaf moist, so it doesn’t turn out dry.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Fresh onion adds a delightful sweetness and flavor that really makes this dish shine!
- 1/4 cup ketchup: This is both for flavor and moisture. You can also use it as a topping for that classic glaze.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold everything together. They also add richness.
- 1 tsp salt: A must for seasoning! It enhances all the flavors in your meatloaf.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Just enough spice to give it a little kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Because who doesn’t love a hint of garlic? It adds a nice depth to the overall flavor.
How to Prepare the Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked. Trust me, the smell of it baking will have your mouth watering in no time!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to combine all those delicious ingredients! Start by adding the ground beef and ground pork. Then, toss in the breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, eggs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Use your hands (yes, get in there!) or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want it to be mixed, but don’t go overboard—just until everything is nicely blended.
Step 3: Shape the Loaf
Now comes the fun part! Take that beautifully mixed meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. You can do this right in your hands or on a clean surface. Make sure it’s a good shape—think classic meatloaf shape! Once you have it formed, place it in a baking dish. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s all about the tasty goodness that’s about to happen!
Step 4: Add Topping
If you’re feeling a little extra (and who isn’t?), spread some additional ketchup on top of the loaf. This gives it that classic glaze and adds even more flavor. If you like a little sweetness, you can mix in some brown sugar with your ketchup for a delightful twist!
Step 5: Bake
Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake it for about 1 hour. You’ll want to keep an eye on it—your meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). The smell will fill your kitchen, and you’ll be counting down the minutes!
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once it’s out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy. After that, it’s time to slice it up and serve! I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and some green beans for the ultimate comfort meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this classic meatloaf comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good meatloaf! It’s a meal that brings the family together and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Full of flavor: The combination of beef and pork, along with those classic seasonings, creates a rich and savory dish that’s bursting with taste.
- Great for leftovers: Meatloaf just gets better the next day! Enjoy it cold in a sandwich or reheated for another cozy meal.
- Perfect for meal prepping: You can easily double the recipe and store portions in the fridge or freezer, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
FAQ About Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a lighter option. Just be sure to add a bit more moisture, like an extra splash of milk or some grated veggies, to keep it juicy.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Your classic meatloaf is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure it’s firm to the touch and the juices run clear.
What should I serve with it?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving my meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of green beans or corn. You could also pair it with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a lighter meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Perfect for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking!
How do I reheat meatloaf?
To reheat, you can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You can also slice it and microwave it for a quicker option, just be sure to cover it to keep it from drying out!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your classic meatloaf turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I swear by:
- Don’t skip the pork: Using a combination of ground beef and pork really elevates the flavor and moisture. If you don’t have pork on hand, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken, but remember to add a bit more liquid to keep it juicy.
- Moisture is key: To ensure your meatloaf isn’t dry, don’t hesitate to incorporate some grated veggies like zucchini or carrots. They’ll add moisture and a subtle sweetness without altering the flavor much.
- Season well: Taste your meat mixture before baking! It’s like a sneak peek into the flavor profile. If you feel it needs more seasoning, throw in a pinch of salt or some herbs. Fresh parsley or thyme can really brighten things up!
- Use a loaf pan: If you want a perfectly shaped loaf, use a loaf pan instead of forming it by hand. It’ll hold its shape beautifully and makes slicing super easy!
- Let it rest: I can’t stress this enough—letting your meatloaf rest after baking is crucial. It helps to keep the slices juicy and prevents it from falling apart like a sad little pile of meat. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
- Experiment with toppings: The classic ketchup glaze is fantastic, but don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a spicy sriracha glaze for a fun twist.
With these tips, you’re set up for meatloaf success! Just remember to have fun with it and make it your own. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just an estimate. For one slice of my classic meatloaf, you can expect something like this:
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 20g
Remember, these numbers are just a guideline. If you decide to swap ingredients or add extra goodies, the nutritional content will change. But hey, regardless of the numbers, what matters most is how delicious it tastes, right? Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about what to do with those lovely leftovers! First off, to store your classic meatloaf, let it cool completely after it’s baked. Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or simply place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. I love that you can enjoy this comforting dish again without having to cook from scratch!
Now, when it comes to reheating, there are a couple of great options. If you want to keep it moist and delicious, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the meatloaf into portions and place them in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. The oven method gives you that freshly baked taste!
If you’re in a pinch for time, you can also microwave individual slices. Just pop a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this keeps it from drying out), and heat it in 30-second intervals until it’s hot. Super quick and still tasty!
So, whether you’re enjoying it straight out of the fridge or giving it a little heat-up, your classic meatloaf will still bring that comforting flavor to your table. Enjoy every last bite!
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Classic Meatloaf Recipe: 5 Secrets for Ultimate Flavor
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Regular
Description
A classic meatloaf recipe that is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, ketchup, eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread additional ketchup on top if desired.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: classic meatloaf recipe