The aroma of a classic meatloaf baking in the oven is like a cozy hug for your senses. Picture it: juicy ground beef mixed with savory spices, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes to perfection. It’s the kind of dish that makes your house smell like home, even if you’re just a renter with questionable wallpaper choices.
This classic meatloaf recipe is not just food; it’s comfort on a plate. When I think back to family dinners, there’s always that one moment where my mom would pull the meatloaf out of the oven, and we’d gather around the table with our forks at the ready. It’s perfect for Sundays or any day you need a quick meal that fills bellies and warms hearts. Get ready because this dish promises to be an unforgettable flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Classic meatloaf is surprisingly easy to prepare and requires minimal effort
- The rich flavors meld beautifully together, making every bite satisfying
- Its hearty appearance makes it an instant crowd-pleaser at any dinner table
- This versatile dish can be enjoyed as leftovers in sandwiches or paired with various sides for a complete meal
Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef (80/20) for juicy meatloaf without excessive grease.
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Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meat together while keeping it moist and tender.
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Eggs: Use two large eggs; they act as a binder and add richness to the loaf.
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Onion: Finely chopped onions add flavor and moisture—don’t skip this ingredient!
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Ketchup: This brings sweetness and moisture; reserve some for topping!
For the Sauce:
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Brown Sugar: Adds caramelization and balances acidity in the sauce.
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Worcestershire Sauce: A splash enhances umami flavors in your meatloaf.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Classic Meatloaf
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a loaf pan and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, ketchup, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you fancy. Mix until everything is just combined—avoid overmixing unless you want your meatloaf to resemble something from a science experiment!
Step 3: Shape Your Loaf
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Form it into an even shape so it cooks uniformly—think of it as giving your meatloaf a little spa treatment!
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard (if using). Spread half of this mixture over the top of your formed loaf—it will create that lip-smacking glaze we all crave.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Slide your masterpiece into the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (70°C). Your kitchen will start smelling like heaven!
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing. This step ensures that all those delicious juices don’t spill out when you cut into it.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your classic meatloaf hot out of the oven or as leftovers—if there’s any left! You might want to hide it from family members; it’s that good! For more inspiration, check out this explore more main dishes recipe.
You Must Know
- This classic meatloaf recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level
- It’s easy to whip up, perfect for family dinners, and even better as leftovers
- With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a deliciously savory centerpiece that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix your ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings in one bowl while sautéing onions in another. Once the onions are translucent, combine everything, shape into a loaf, and bake until it’s cooked through.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter option. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Experiment with different sauces on top, such as barbecue or ketchup.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, maintaining its juiciness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a moist classic meatloaf, don’t overmix the ingredients; just combine them until they’re blended
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps retain juices for better flavor
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the taste significantly
When I first made this classic meatloaf for my friends’ potluck dinner, they devoured it within minutes! Their compliments made me realize that simple recipes have a magical way of bringing people together.
FAQs :
What ingredients are essential for Classic Meatloaf?
To create a delicious Classic Meatloaf, gather ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, and milk. These basic ingredients form the foundation of this beloved dish. You can also add seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor. Some variations include incorporating bell peppers or Worcestershire sauce. The combination of these ingredients ensures a moist and flavorful meatloaf that everyone will love.
How do I cook Classic Meatloaf?
Cooking Classic Meatloaf is straightforward. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the meat with the other ingredients until well combined. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest before slicing to ensure it stays juicy. This simple method guarantees a tasty meal every time. For more inspiration, check out this useful cooking tips recipe.
Can I freeze Classic Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze Classic Meatloaf! To ensure the best quality, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag before freezing. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for optimal texture.
What side dishes pair well with Classic Meatloaf?
Classic Meatloaf pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Popular choices include creamy mashed potatoes, buttered corn, or steamed green beans. You might also consider serving it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. These sides complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf while adding color and nutrition to your plate.
Conclusion for Classic Meatloaf :
Classic Meatloaf remains a timeless favorite due to its ease of preparation and comforting taste. By using simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and onions, you can create a dish that pleases everyone at your table. Remember to bake it properly to ensure juiciness and flavor. Whether served with traditional sides or modern twists, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Enjoy making this classic dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to family meals!
Classic Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Classic meatloaf is a warm, comforting dish that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. Made with juicy ground beef, savory spices, and topped with a sweet-tangy glaze, this recipe is both easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, it also makes delicious leftovers. Follow these simple steps to create an unforgettable meatloaf that will fill your home with delightful aromas.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- For the sauce: ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of this mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let rest for about ten minutes before slicing. Drizzle with remaining sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
