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Classic Homemade Meatloaf Recipe

Classic Homemade Meatloaf Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

Ah, meatloaf. Just the mention of it conjures up memories of family dinners and cozy kitchens. For many, it’s a dish steeped in nostalgia. The scent of meatloaf wafting through the house feels like a warm embrace, doesn’t it? It’s comforting, satisfying, and frankly, a kitchen classic that stands the test of time.
Now, maybe you’ve had some lackluster meatloaf experiences—dry, bland, or sawdust-like. Fear not! Today, I’ll share my go-to recipe for classic homemade meatloaf that is juicy, flavorful, and downright delicious. The best part? It's easy to make and comes with tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time. Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 270
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Meatloaf:
  • 1 lb 90% lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup dried breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional, for extra herbal depth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional, for a tangy kick
For the Topping:
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional, for a slight tang and flavor balance
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it ready to go when your meatloaf is ready to hit the baking dish.
Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Beef
  1. In a large bowl, you'll want to combine the ground beef with the finely diced onion. Sautéing the onion first can enhance the flavor, if you have time to spare. Just remember to cool it down a bit before mixing it in.
Step 3: Add Dairy and Bind
  1. Next, it's time to add milk and the beaten egg to the bowl. This ensures your meatloaf will be moist and flavorful. Use a gentle hand to combine these ingredients with the beef mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
  1. Now, gradually add the breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and all your seasonings. Mixing with your hands might feel a bit like a messy task, but trust me, it’s the best way to ensure everything is evenly combined. Just avoid over-mixing; you want a tender loaf.
Step 5: Shape the Mixture
  1. Once everything is combined well, transfer the mixture to a baking sheet or a loaf pan. Shape it into a nice loaf form. Aim for a loaf about 2 inches high for even cooking.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
  1. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and red wine vinegar. Spread this mixture on top of your meatloaf. It adds a great glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake
  1. Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Be sure to check it at the 45-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
  1. Once done, let your meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a more tender bite. Slice it, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Do Not Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Just combine until everything is well-incorporated.
  • Use Lean Meat: Aim for a leaner ground beef to keep it from becoming greasy.
  • Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add diced bell pepper, celery, or carrots to sneak in some extra veggies.
  • Check Temperature Early: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overbaking.
  • Let it Rest: Always give your meatloaf time to rest after baking for the best texture.