Get ready to dive into a classic meatloaf recipe with a delightful twist! This savory dish combines tender ground beef, fluffy breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices for a flavor explosion. The real kicker is the sweet and tangy glaze made with ketchup, brown sugar, and zesty Dijon mustard that gives the meatloaf a mouthwatering golden-brown crust. It's the perfect comfort food that's sure to have your family asking for seconds. And if you keep reading, you'll discover even more tasty details about this beloved recipe!
Key Takeaways
- Classic meatloaf is a versatile dish with origins in the late 19th or early 20th century USA, evolving with unique family variations over time.
- The classic meatloaf recipe combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and spices, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze.
- The straightforward cooking process allows for creativity and adaptability to personal taste preferences, including baking for 60-75 minutes at 375°F.
- Key steps include thoroughly mixing the ingredients, shaping the mixture into a loaf, baking until the internal temperature is reached, and allowing it to rest before serving.
- The savory flavor profile, tender texture, and appealing presentation make classic meatloaf a comforting and elegant dish suitable for gatherings and family meals.
History
Although the exact origins of meatloaf are unclear, it's believed to have emerged as a popular dish in the United States during the late 19th or early 20th century. Back then, frugal home cooks would stretch out precious meat by combining it with bread crumbs, eggs, and savory seasonings.
This delicious and economical meal quickly became a staple on tables across the country.
Over the years, meatloaf recipes have evolved, with families passing down their own unique twists and variations. Some cooks prefer a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal, while others stick to a classic all-beef version.
The topping can range from a simple ketchup glaze to a more elaborate mix of sauces and spices. No matter the recipe, meatloaf remains a comforting and satisfying dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in many households for generations. This recipe for Classic Meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender ground beef, flavorful seasonings, and a sweet and tangy glaze creates a delicious and satisfying dish.
Preparing meatloaf is a straightforward process that allows for a bit of creativity. Whether you prefer a simple recipe or enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, this classic meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your personal taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well blended.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
To ensure a delicious and juicy meatloaf, it's important to not overmix the ingredients. Gently mixing the mixture will help prevent the meat from becoming tough.
Additionally, letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Enjoy your Classic Meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and a crisp salad.
Cooking Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F – that's the perfect temperature to bake this classic meatloaf!
Next, grab a large bowl and toss in all the tasty ingredients.
Once they're mixed together, shape the mixture into a loaf pan and pop it in the oven.
In about an hour, you'll have a delicious meatloaf ready to enjoy!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
To begin the cooking process, preheat your oven to a toasty 375°F. This nice, cozy temperature is just right for baking your delicious meatloaf to perfection.
You'll want to give your oven a few minutes to heat up – it's like warming up before a big game or performance. Once it reaches the target temperature, you'll be ready to pop that savory meatloaf right in.
The enticing aroma of baking beef, herbs, and spices will start to fill your kitchen, making everyone's tummies rumble with anticipation. Keep a close eye on the oven, and in about an hour, you'll have a golden-brown masterpiece ready to slice and serve.
Your family will be thrilled when you bring this classic comfort food to the table. So, preheat that oven and get ready for a mouthwatering meatloaf experience!
Step 2. In a Large Bowl, Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together until it's all nicely blended. You'll want to make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed, so keep on stirring and squishing with your hands until the mixture looks uniform.
Now, the fun part! Grab a handful of the meatloaf mixture and gently shape it into a loaf pan.
Smooth out the top so it's nice and even. This way, your meatloaf will bake up beautifully. Don't be afraid to get a little messy – that's all part of the cooking process!
Once your meatloaf is all shaped and ready, pop it in the oven.
In about an hour, your house will start to smell amazing as the meatloaf bakes to perfection. Keep an eye on it, and before you know it, you'll have a delicious homemade meatloaf ready to enjoy!
Step 3. Form Into Loaf Pan
Now, grab a handful of the meatloaf mixture and gently shape it into a loaf pan.
You'll want to use your hands to mold the meat into a nice, even rectangular shape, making sure the top is smooth and flat.
Don't pack it in too tightly, though – you want the meatloaf to have a light, fluffy texture when it's baked.
Once you've got the shape you want, use a spatula to carefully transfer the meatloaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Gently pat the top to even it out, then use a fork to create a few shallow grooves across the surface.
This will help the glaze or sauce you add later soak in and get all nice and flavorful.
Now your meatloaf is ready for the oven!
Just pop it in and let the magic happen.
In no time, your kitchen will be filled with the most mouthwatering aroma, and you'll have a classic, comforting dish the whole family will love.
Step 4. Bake for 60-75 Minutes
The meatloaf's baking time typically ranges from 60 to 75 minutes. This is the perfect time to let that delicious meatloaf work its magic in the oven! As it bakes, the aroma will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water with anticipation.
You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F.
Don't be tempted to open the oven door too often, as this can cause the temperature to drop, affecting the baking time. Keep a close eye on it, though, and if the top starts to get too brown, you can loosely cover it with a piece of foil to prevent burning.
Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Grab your fork and get ready to savor the classic, comforting taste of homemade meatloaf!
Step 5. Let Meatloaf Rest 10 Minutes
Once the timer goes off, carefully take the meatloaf out of the oven. You'll notice it's nicely browned on top and the aroma is absolutely mouth-watering!
Now, as tempting as it might be to dive right in, it's important to let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, making every slice tender and flavorful.
While you wait, you can start setting the table or preparing any side dishes. This resting time is the perfect opportunity to give the meatloaf a chance to firm up a bit.
When the 10 minutes are up, use a sharp knife to slice into the meatloaf. You'll see those delicious layers of meat, vegetables, and herbs come together in perfect harmony.
Serve it up hot, with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Your family is going to love this classic meatloaf recipe – it's sure to become a new dinnertime favorite!
Final Thoughts
With the meatloaf now ready to serve, you can take a moment to reflect on the process. Isn't it amazing how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a delightful and comforting dish? The aroma of the savory spices and the golden-brown crust are sure to have your mouth watering.
For a delightful appetizer to complement your meal, consider serving Crab Cakes, as they add a touch of elegance and flavor. As you slice into the meatloaf, you'll notice how tender and juicy it is, thanks to the perfect balance of meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. The sweet and tangy glaze on top adds a delightful finishing touch, complementing the flavors beautifully.
Now, it's time to gather your family and friends around the table to enjoy this classic meatloaf recipe. The warm, homemade goodness is sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces.
Don't be surprised if they ask for seconds – this meatloaf is just that good! So, savor every bite and relish in the satisfaction of a job well done.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
You can definitely use ground turkey instead of beef in your recipe. Turkey is a leaner meat, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and add some extra moisture to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure the entire dish is gluten-free.
How Long Does the Meatloaf Stay Fresh in the Fridge?
The freshness of the meatloaf in the fridge depends on various factors, but generally, it'll stay fresh for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it properly in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated to maximize its shelf life.
Can I Freeze the Leftovers for Later Use?
You can absolutely freeze the meatloaf leftovers for later use. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and they'll stay fresh in the freezer for 2-3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating when you're ready to enjoy them again.
What Sides Pair Well With This Meatloaf Dish?
When pairing sides with this meatloaf dish, you can't go wrong with classic options like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. These sides complement the savory flavors and provide a well-rounded meal.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
