Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of steaming hot meatloaf. The moment it meets your taste buds, a symphony of flavors dances around your mouth—savory beef mingling with sweet onions and zesty seasonings. This mouthwatering meatloaf recipe doesn’t just fill your belly; it warms your heart too. It’s a dish that carries childhood memories wrapped in comforting aromas that waft through the kitchen.
Picture this: a cozy family gathering where everyone gathers around the table, eagerly awaiting their slice of this meaty delight. My grandmother’s famous meatloaf always stole the show at our Sunday dinners. It was a culinary masterpiece that I can still hear my aunt raving about!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious meatloaf recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and delivers big on flavor
- Its rustic charm makes it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings
- Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers!
My uncle once proclaimed this meatloaf as “life-changing” after devouring two slices in one sitting at Thanksgiving!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use high-quality ground beef with 80% lean content for optimal juiciness and flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or Italian breadcrumbs; they help bind the mixture while adding texture.
- Onion: Finely chop fresh onion; it adds moisture and sweetness to your meatloaf.
- Eggs: Use two eggs as a binder; they keep the loaf together without making it too dense.
- Ketchup: This will add a tangy sweetness; don’t skimp on the topping for extra flavor.
- Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder elevates the overall taste; it’s an essential ingredient in my book.
- Salt & Pepper: Season generously to enhance all flavors; taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a loaf pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to ensure nothing sticks.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed. Be careful not to overmix; we’re looking for love here—not tough meat!
Shape Your Loaf: Transfer the mixture into your greased loaf pan and gently shape it into a nice loaf shape using your hands. You want it snug but not overly compressed.
Add Toppings: Spread some extra ketchup over the top of your shaped loaf for that classic glaze effect. Trust me; this adds an irresistible kick when cooked!
Bake Away: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until juices run clear when pierced with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer handy, aim for 160°F (70°C).
Let It Rest: Once baked to perfection, allow your meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep those savory juices locked inside!
Enjoy every bite of this mouthwatering creation! Serve alongside mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for an unforgettable meal.
This delightful meatloaf recipe not only brings joy but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table with loved ones. Your family will be begging you to make this again!
You Must Know
- This meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food that never fails to impress
- It’s perfect for family dinners and can be easily customized to suit your taste
- The aroma while it’s baking fills the house with warmth, making it a delightful experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your ingredients in a bowl, then form them into a loaf shape. Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour until cooked through, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor. Spice up the glaze with barbecue sauce or ketchup mixed with mustard for a zesty kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly moist meatloaf, avoid overmixing; it can lead to a dense texture
- Let the loaf rest before slicing to maintain juiciness
- Experiment with different toppings, like cheese or bacon, for added flavor and excitement
My first meatloaf was an epic fail—dry as a desert! But after mastering this recipe, my family now requests it every week.
FAQ
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs in meatloaf?
Oats or crushed crackers work well as great substitutes for breadcrumbs.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking or after slicing it into portions.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check if it reaches 160°F internally for safety.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Savor the taste of this easy and delicious meatloaf, featuring savory beef, aromatic herbs, and a tangy ketchup glaze that brings comfort to the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in the prepared pan and spread additional ketchup on top.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour or until juices run clear (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Customize your meatloaf by swapping ground beef with turkey or adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. For variety in flavor, try adding barbecue sauce mixed with ketchup as a glaze. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; reheat with a splash of broth to keep moist.
