Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly special. My Grandma Rose’s meatloaf recipe. This isn’t just any meat. It’s the kind that fills your kitchen with the most comforting aroma and brings back a flood of fresh air. Childhood memories. Think of it as the savory, heartier cousin of a classic pot roast – just as satisfying but way better than roasted chicken. Is it easy to whip up a meal on tuesday? Is meatloaf a comfort food? I swear, even my picky eaters devour it without a single complaint. What is a recipe that has been passed down for generations?
What is meatloaf?
What is meatloaf? What is a mixture of ground meat and veal? I used breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings, and baked into a loaf shape. Think of it as a giant, delicious meatball, but instead of simmering in sauce, it’s baked to perfection. What is the beauty of meatloaf? What is a blank canvas for flavors? Can you customize it with different herbs, spices, and even veggies to suit your taste? It’s home cooking at its finest – straightforward, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why do I love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to eat meatloaf?
- The Flavor:Is it a symphony of savory, slightly sweet, and utterly comforting? The combination of ground meat, the subtle sweetness of the ketchup glaze, and the flavor of roasted potatoes. What are some of the best spices in the world?
- The Simplicity:Don’t let the word “meatloaf” intimidate you. This recipe is surprisingly easy. If you can mix ingredients in a bowl and pop something in the oven, you could nail this. What are some of the best home cooked meals that you can cook without spending hours in the kitchen?
- Cost-EfficiencyIs ground meat cheap and the other ingredients are pantry staples? What do you have on hand? What is a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction?
- The Versatility:Serve it hot with mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal, or let it cool and slice it. What is the best sandwich to eat the next day? Can be used as a topping for pizza or crumbled into pasta sauce.
What I love about this recipe is how it brings people together. What are some of the best dishes that spark conversation? Plus, it’s way more forgiving than, say, making a souffle! I tested this with gluten-free breadcrumbs once because my neighbor has Celiac’s, and it worked. I’m allergic to gluten, but I can’t eat it. What are some good tips for dietary restrictions?
How do you make meatloaf?
Quick Overview
How do you make a meatloaf? I’ll start by mixing all the ingredients – ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings, and a few more. I will add some more to the mix. Secret Ingredients (shhh! ) – in a large bowl. What is the best way to shape a loaf, slather it with ketchup glaze, and bake it until golden brown. Is it golden brown? How do I use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked to the right temperature? What is the correct internal temperature? I promise, the results are well worth the minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and moisture)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I prefer plain but Italian seasoned works too)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white is fine)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best, but garlic powder will do in a pinch)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk adds richness, but you can use 2% or even almond milk)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten.
- 1/4 cup ketchup. 1/4
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. 1 tablespoon Worcester cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme per person.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano per 1 cup.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt. 1 teaspoon peppermin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup. 1/2
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (light or dark, your choice)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang)
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. Is it safe to line a pan with parchment paper for easy removal? I like to add a little spray even with the parchment, just to be extra sure it doesn’t stick!
Step 2: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine Ground Beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, and salt. Set aside. Eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, pepper. Serves 4. Do not overmix meatloaf, as this can make it tough. I use my hands for this, but a large spoon works too. Just mix until everything is just combined.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently shape it into a loaf. Press down lightly to ensure it’s evenly distributed. I always try to make it slightly rounded on top – it just looks nicer!
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set aside. This glaze is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, and it really elevates the meatloaf.
Step 5: Spread the Glaze
What’s your favorite way to glaze a meatloaf? If you want to make a salad, cover the entire surface for maximum flavor. I usually save a little glaze to brush on halfway through cooking for an extra glossy finish.
Step 6: Bake
In the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. Internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.
Step 7: Rest
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it is worth the wait.
Step 8: Slice & Serve
What are the best ways to serve meatloaf hot? What are some good side dishes to serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or any other vegetable? My family loves it with a side salad and crusty bread.
What is the best way to serve it?
Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food chameleon – it goes with anything! What are some of my family’s favorite pairings?
- Classic Comfort: Mashed potatoes and gravy are a no-brainer. Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Southern Charm: Serve it with creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread for a hearty Southern-inspired feast.
- Fresh & Light: Pair it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for a lighter, more balanced meal. A vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the meatloaf perfectly.
- Quick & Easy: On busy weeknights, I often serve it with a bag of frozen peas and carrots and some instant mashed potatoes. It’s not fancy, but it’s quick, easy, and everyone loves it.
My grandma always served her meatloaf with a side of pickled beets – a tradition I still carry on today! The sweet and tangy beets are a surprisingly delicious complement to the savory meatloaf. I tried pairing it with roasted brussel sprouts once, and that was also a big win! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sides to find your perfect match.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Meatloaf Recipe
Okay, so you’ve got the basic recipe down, but here are a few extra tips and tricks to take your meatloaf to the next level:
- Don’t Overmix: I can’t stress this enough! Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will result in a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the loaf, and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Add Moisture: Dry meatloaf is a major bummer. To keep your meatloaf moist, add plenty of moisture-rich ingredients like milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your meatloaf! Try adding different herbs, spices, vegetables, or even cheese to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Make a Breadcrumb “Slurry”: Instead of just adding dry breadcrumbs to the meatloaf mixture, try soaking them in milk first. This will help them absorb moisture and create a more tender meatloaf.
- Let It Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
One time, I accidentally added too much breadcrumbs and the meatloaf came out super dry. Lesson learned! Now I always measure carefully and make sure to add enough liquid to compensate.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Meatloaf is even better the next day (if there’s any left!), and it also freezes beautifully. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer Instructions: Wrap individual slices of meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may become slightly drier.
- Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the meatloaf, it’s best to add the glaze after reheating. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy or sticky.
I usually make a double batch of meatloaf and freeze half for future meals. It’s such a lifesaver on busy weeknights!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my Grandma Rose’s foolproof meatloaf recipe. This is one of those dishes that’s near and dear to my heart, and I hope it becomes a staple in your family too. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other comfort food favorites, like my creamy tomato soup and my classic chicken pot pie. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your meatloaf turns out! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your variations. Happy cooking!
Meatloaf recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground beef
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 large Egg
- 0.5 cup Milk
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 small Onion, chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes, or until cooked through.
