The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food that has been a household favorite for generations. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight dinner or need a dish that will please a crowd, this meatloaf recipe is the one to turn to. It’s juicy, flavorful, and topped with a tangy glaze that makes every bite irresistible. This easy-to-follow recipe comes together quickly and bakes up perfectly with minimal effort. With a combination of tender ground beef, savory seasonings, and a rich homemade sauce, this meatloaf will soon become a family staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile – feel free to swap in different meats or seasonings to suit your tastes. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or your favorite side, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re new to making meatloaf or just looking for a tried-and-true recipe, this one won’t disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Comfort Food: Meatloaf is a timeless dish that never goes out of style, perfect for any meal of the day.
2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a few steps, you can create a delicious meal without much effort.
3. Juicy and Tender: The combination of beef, milk, and seasonings creates a meatloaf that is moist and flavorful.
4. Customizable: You can swap out ingredients, like using ground turkey or adding different seasonings, for a unique twist.
5. Perfect for Leftovers: Meatloaf makes fantastic leftovers, whether you’re making sandwiches or enjoying it the next day.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• Ground beef (85% or 80% lean)
• Medium onion, finely chopped
• Olive oil
• Large eggs
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Ketchup
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
• Milk
• Salt
• Italian seasoning
• Ground black pepper

For the Sauce

• Ketchup
• White vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Variations

• Meat Substitutes: You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a leaner option.
• Add Veggies: For an extra veggie boost, consider adding finely chopped carrots or zucchini to the meat mixture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular Panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Cheese: For a cheesy twist, add shredded cheese to the meat mixture or top the meatloaf with cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Prep the Baking Sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Sauté the Onions: Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and turn golden. Transfer the onions to a plate to cool.
3. Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, eggs, garlic, ketchup, parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
4. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to combine.
6. Glaze the Meatloaf: After 40 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the prepared sauce over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meat mixture just until everything is combined. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
• Use Lean Ground Beef: For the best texture and flavor, choose ground beef with 80% or 85% lean content.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow the juices to redistribute and make slicing easier.
• Meat Thermometer: For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should reach 160°F.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just stir it well before using.

How to Serve

Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For a heartier meal, pair it with creamy macaroni and cheese or a baked potato. The rich, tangy glaze makes it delicious on its own, but it’s also perfect for drizzling over sides or even making meatloaf sandwiches the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices or bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat the meatloaf in the oven. If using a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture while reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for beef.
2. How do I make the meatloaf more flavorful? Add extra herbs, like rosemary or thyme, or incorporate grated cheese into the meat mixture for added richness.
3. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko? Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko, but Panko breadcrumbs give the meatloaf a lighter, crispier texture.
4. Can I cook meatloaf in a loaf pan? Yes, you can cook the meatloaf in a loaf pan, but be sure to increase the oven temperature to 375°F and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Just shape it, wrap it well, and store it in the freezer. Bake it from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
6. How do I know when my meatloaf is done? The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
7. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
8. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe. Just ensure you use a larger baking sheet or two separate pans.
9. Why is my meatloaf dry? Overbaking and using leaner cuts of meat can dry out meatloaf. Make sure not to overmix or overcook.
10. What should I do if my meatloaf is too greasy? If the meatloaf is greasy, try using leaner ground beef or draining any excess fat halfway through cooking.

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf recipe delivers juicy, flavorful results with a tangy, homemade glaze that everyone will love. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it with mashed potatoes, veggies, or as a sandwich the next day, this meatloaf is versatile and delicious, making it the perfect addition to your recipe collection.

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