The smell of meatloaf in the kitchen reminds me of my childhood. It’s the scent of comfort, family dinners, and mom’s love. This easy meatloaf recipe is more than food; it’s a warm hug on a plate. As I make this homemade meatloaf, I’m creating memories, just like my mom did for me.
Meatloaf is a hero in American cuisine. It’s simple, hearty, and always satisfying. Made with lean ground beef, seasonings, onions, and breadcrumbs, it’s baked to perfection. The beauty of homemade meatloaf is its versatility and the comfort it brings to dinner.
This meatloaf recipe has earned its place. With almost 200 five-star reviews and a 4.80 out of 5 rating, it’s clear it’s a hit. It shows the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and a bit of culinary magic.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is perfect. It’s time to get ready, preheat the oven, and make a dish your family will love. They’ll be asking for seconds – and thirds!
Key Takeaways
- Homemade meatloaf is a comforting, family-friendly meal
- The recipe boasts nearly 200 five-star reviews
- Use 80/20 or 90% lean ground beef for best results
- Breadcrumbs are crucial for moisture retention
- The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165ºF
- Let the meatloaf rest for 8-10 minutes before serving
- Each serving contains about 164-328 calories, depending on the recipe variation
Essential Ingredients for a Good Meatloaf Recipe
To make the best meatloaf, start with the right ingredients. A mix of meats, seasonings, and binders makes a moist, flavorful loaf.
The Perfect Meat Blend and Ratios
Choose 80% lean ground beef for the best taste and texture. This fat level keeps the meat juicy without being too greasy. Adding ground pork can also enhance the flavor.
Key Seasonings and Aromatics
Seasonings are key to a tasty meatloaf. Use finely chopped onions, minced garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. These add delicious flavors as it cooks.
Moisture-Adding Components
Eggs and milk add moisture and help the meat stick together. Grated carrots or zucchini can also make it juicier.
Special Binding Ingredients
Breadcrumbs are essential for a cohesive meatloaf. They soak up moisture and prevent it from becoming too dense. For a gluten-free option, try crushed crackers or oatmeal.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80% lean) | 2 pounds | Main protein |
| Eggs | 2 large | Binding |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Moisture |
| Breadcrumbs | 3/4 cup | Texture and binding |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium | Flavor |
By choosing and balancing these ingredients, you’ll make a delicious, moist meatloaf. It’s sure to be a hit with your family.
Expert Tips for Making and Baking Your Meatloaf
Making the perfect classic meatloaf needs care and some expert tips. Whether you’re making a family meatloaf recipe or trying a baked meatloaf, these tips will help. You’ll get delicious results.
Proper Mixing Techniques
When mixing your meatloaf ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing makes it dense. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. This makes your baked meatloaf tender and juicy, loved by all.
Pan Selection and Preparation
For a crispy crust, use a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan. This lets heat circulate better, making the crust nice and brown. If using a loaf pan, line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Preheat your pan before adding the meatloaf for even cooking.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
Set your oven to 350°F for the best results. A 2-pound meatloaf takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes to cook. Always check the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it moist and improve texture.
Making the Perfect Glaze Topping
A tasty glaze can make your meatloaf even better. Mix 1 cup ketchup, 2 teaspoons white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar for a basic glaze. Apply it generously before baking to prevent cracking and boost flavor. This simple step turns a good meatloaf into a favorite in your home.
FAQ
What’s the best meat to use for meatloaf?
The top choice for meatloaf is an 80/20 ground beef mix. This blend offers the perfect mix of taste and moisture. Some recipes also add ground pork or veal for extra flavor.
How can I keep my meatloaf moist?
To keep your meatloaf moist, use milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs. These ingredients help keep it moist while cooking. Also, avoid mixing the meat too much and don’t overcook it.
What are some common meatloaf seasonings?
Common seasonings for meatloaf include salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Onion powder and dried herbs like thyme or parsley are also used. Many recipes also add Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor.
How long should I bake my meatloaf?
The baking time varies based on the meatloaf’s size. A 2-pound loaf baked at 350°F (175°C) takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C).
Should I cover my meatloaf while baking?
You don’t need to cover your meatloaf while baking. This lets the top get a nice crust. But, if it browns too fast, cover it with foil loosely.
What’s a good glaze for meatloaf?
A classic glaze is made from ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. This mix creates a sweet and tangy topping that caramelizes well.
Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead. Mix the ingredients, shape the loaf, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months before baking.
What’s the best pan for baking meatloaf?
While a loaf pan is traditional, many chefs prefer a baking sheet. It allows for better heat circulation, resulting in a nice crust. If using a sheet, shape the meat mixture into a loaf by hand.
How can I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
To keep your meatloaf from falling apart, use eggs and breadcrumbs as binders. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps it set and hold together better.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for a healthier option?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option for meatloaf. Since turkey has less fat, you might need to add extra moisture-rich ingredients to prevent it from drying out.
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Easy Homemade Meatloaf: A Delicious Family Favorite
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
This easy homemade meatloaf is a comforting, family-friendly meal packed with flavor. Juicy, tender, and topped with a delicious glaze, this recipe is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals or Sunday dinners, it’s a timeless classic that brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
3/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp white vinegar
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Mix the meatloaf ingredients – In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the meatloaf – Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
Prepare the glaze – In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and white vinegar. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake the meatloaf for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, spread the remaining glaze on top.
Rest before serving – Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 8-10 minutes. This helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
Serve and enjoy! Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.
Notes
For extra juiciness, consider adding 1/4 cup grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture.
If using a loaf pan, drain any excess grease halfway through baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, easy dinner, family meal, comfort food