Irresistible Classic Meatloaf Recipe for Cozy Nights

Classic Meatloaf is like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing together the rich flavors of perfectly seasoned ground beef with the comforting, cozy aroma wafting through your kitchen. Just imagine slicing into that juicy loaf, each piece a savory delight that practically melts in your mouth, surrounded by a sweet and tangy glaze that makes you wonder why you ever settled for takeout.

Ah, the memories! I still remember my first attempt at making Classic Meatloaf. Let’s just say it involved more smoke than sizzle and resulted in an epic kitchen disaster. But after many trials and more than a few kitchen mishaps, I’ve perfected this recipe. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need some comfort food magic. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that’ll have you reminiscing about childhood dinners while laughing at your past culinary adventures.

Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor and moisture.

• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf together; feel free to use homemade or store-bought varieties.

• Eggs: Two large eggs act as a binder and add richness to the mix.

• Onion: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth; sautéing them first enhances their flavor.

• Ketchup: A classic ingredient that adds moisture and tanginess; don’t skimp on this!

• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami goodness—just a little goes a long way.

For the Glaze:

• Brown Sugar: This sweetens the glaze and creates a beautiful caramelization when baked.

• Mustard: Adds zing; yellow mustard works well but feel free to use Dijon if that’s your style.

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). You want it nice and cozy for our meatloaf!

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Spray a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later—trust me, no one wants to wrestle with meatloaf stuck to the pan.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté finely chopped onions until they’re translucent—about five minutes. This step brings out their sweetness!

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands (it’s therapeutic) and mix until just combined—overmixing will lead to tough meatloaf.

Step 5: Shape Your Loaf

Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf shape—think of it as sculpting but much tastier!

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread this glaze generously over the top of your meatloaf—this is where all that deliciousness happens!

Now pop that beauty into the oven and bake for about one hour or until its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Once done, let it sit for about ten minutes before slicing—this allows those juices to redistribute beautifully! Transfer slices onto plates and serve with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for an unforgettable meal that speaks comfort food fluently!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you mix the ingredients for the classic meatloaf. Shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet, then bake until golden brown. While it cooks, whip up some mashed potatoes or veggies for the perfect side.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up your classic meatloaf with spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs like parsley. You can also swap ground beef for turkey or add shredded cheese for extra creaminess. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Let the classic meatloaf cool completely before slicing and storing in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave or warm them in the oven, covered with foil to keep moisture.

It reminds me of that one time I made classic meatloaf for my friends’ potluck. They devoured it all and asked for seconds—my heart swelled with pride!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Classic Meatloaf?

To make a delicious Classic Meatloaf, you’ll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add milk to keep it moist. For the glaze, mix ketchup with brown sugar and mustard for a sweet and tangy finish. This combination enhances the overall flavor and makes your meatloaf irresistible.

How long does it take to cook Classic Meatloaf?

Cooking Classic Meatloaf typically takes about 1 hour in the oven at 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (70°C) for safety. Letting the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is flavorful and moist. For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.

Can I freeze Classic Meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze Classic Meatloaf! To do so, allow it to cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

How can I customize my Classic Meatloaf?

You can customize your Classic Meatloaf by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Experiment with spices such as Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning to enhance the taste. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or hot sauce into your mixture. These variations keep your meatloaf exciting.

Conclusion for Classic Meatloaf:

Classic Meatloaf is a timeless dish loved by many for its comforting flavors and easy preparation. By using simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, and breadcrumbs, you create a hearty meal that pleases everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe based on your preferences! With its versatility and ability to freeze well, Classic Meatloaf remains a staple in many households. Enjoy cooking this classic dish! For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.

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Classic Meatloaf

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Classic Meatloaf is the quintessential comfort food that combines seasoned ground beef with a sweet and tangy glaze. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, delivering delicious flavors and nostalgic memories with each melt-in-your-mouth slice. Whether served with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• For the glaze: 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
3. Sauté onions over medium heat until translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until just combined.
5. Shape the mixture into a loaf in the prepared pan.
6. Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze; spread over the meatloaf.
7. Bake for about 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 712mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added flavor complexity, consider using half ground beef and half ground pork. Feel free to customize by adding spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs; you can also swap ground beef for turkey if desired. Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.