Classic Meatloaf is one of those meals that wraps you in a warm, savory hug. The aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with onions and breadcrumbs fills the room, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. It’s the kind of dish that takes you back to family dinners and cozy nights at home, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the gravy.
Picture this: a perfectly baked loaf, glazed with a tangy ketchup topping, sits proudly on your dinner table, ready to be sliced. It’s not just meat and bread; it’s nostalgia on a plate, a classic comfort food that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or a busy weeknight, Classic Meatloaf is the answer to “What’s for dinner?”
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Classic Meatloaf recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike
- The flavor profile combines savory meatiness with subtle hints of herbs and spices that tantalize your taste buds
- Its visual appeal—golden-brown crust with a glossy glaze—makes it an instant centerpiece at any meal
- Versatile enough for leftovers or sandwiches, this dish fits any occasion seamlessly
Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: A classic choice for meatloaf; aim for 80% lean for the right balance of moisture and flavor.
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Breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together; panko adds extra texture if you’re feeling fancy.
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Onion: Diced onions add sweetness and depth; sauté them first for even more flavor.
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Ketchup: A star ingredient for both binding and glazing; go for the good stuff!
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Eggs: Essential for holding everything together; use fresh eggs for the best results.
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Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami depth; just a splash will elevate your meatloaf game.
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 your favorite baking dish or loaf pan and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion (sautéed if you’re feeling adventurous), eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands—it’s messy but fun!
Step 3: Shape Your Loaf
Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Don’t worry about imperfections; they add character.
Step 4: Glaze It Up
Spread a generous layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This not only enhances flavor but gives it that classic look we all adore.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the meatloaf into your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture inside—nobody likes dry meat!
Serve slices drizzled with additional ketchup or gravy if you’re feeling saucy! Enjoy this hearty meal with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a true comfort food experience.
Now grab your apron and get ready to turn your kitchen into a cozy haven filled with mouthwatering aromas because Classic Meatloaf is not just food; it’s an experience that brings joy!
You Must Know
- This classic meatloaf recipe is more than a comfort food; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table
- It’s easy to adapt and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings
- With its savory aroma and hearty texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven while you mix the ingredients. Shape the meatloaf and place it in a prepared dish. Bake until golden brown, while you whip up some mashed potatoes. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time for a perfect meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Add some diced bell peppers or shredded cheese for extra flavor. A splash of BBQ sauce on top can also elevate your classic meatloaf experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover classic meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it remains juicy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a moist classic meatloaf, avoid overmixing the ingredients; just combine until blended
- Use lean meat but not too lean, as some fat enhances flavor
- Finally, let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it tender and juicy
It was my grandmother’s secret recipe that brought our family together—her classic meatloaf always made Sunday dinners feel special, with laughter and stories flowing just as freely as the gravy did!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Classic Meatloaf?
To make Classic Meatloaf, you will need ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, and seasoning such as salt and pepper. You can also add Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Some people like to include bell peppers or even diced tomatoes for a moist texture. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory dish that is loved by many. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile.
How long does it take to cook Classic Meatloaf?
Cooking Classic Meatloaf generally takes about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C). However, the cooking time may vary based on the size of your meatloaf. A larger loaf may need an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly. It’s important to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. Letting it rest for a few minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy.
Can I make Classic Meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Classic Meatloaf in advance and refrigerate it before baking. You can also freeze an uncooked meatloaf for up to three months. When ready to cook, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you’ll have a quick meal solution at your fingertips on busy days.
What sides pair well with Classic Meatloaf?
Classic Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with various sides. Traditional choices include mashed potatoes with gravy or steamed vegetables like green beans and carrots. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch and balance to the meal. For something different, consider serving it with roasted potatoes or macaroni and cheese. These sides complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf beautifully.
Conclusion for Classic Meatloaf:
Classic Meatloaf is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a flavorful meal that your family will love. Remember to allow enough cooking time for thorough cooking and consider making it ahead for convenience. By pairing it with tasty sides, you elevate this classic recipe into a delightful feast that everyone will enjoy! For more inspiration, check out this side dish ideas recipe.
Classic Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Classic Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy nights. This savory, hearty dish combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic onions, and breadcrumbs, all topped with a glossy ketchup glaze. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner, this meatloaf recipe is straightforward and delicious, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup ketchup (plus more for glazing)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared dish.
- Spread a layer of ketchup on top for added flavor.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 288
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 679mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 94mg
