Meatloaf

The best meatloaf recipe! This easy, classic meatloaf is super tender and moist inside, glazed with a sweet and tangy ketchup sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week. With its rich flavor and comforting texture, this meatloaf will surely become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Flavorful Glaze: The combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar gives the meatloaf a delightful sweet and tangy finish.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for sandwiches or a quick reheated meal.
• Family-Friendly: Its mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your preparation and cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meatloaf pan
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Meatloaf pan: Helps shape the meatloaf evenly while allowing excess fat to drain away during cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic to enhance their flavors before mixing them into the meatloaf.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds lean ground beef (you can replace 1/2 of the beef with chicken if you like)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or dried parsley; plus more for garnishing)

For the Glaze

• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

How to Make Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

• Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion mixture with all other meatloaf ingredients.
• Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

• Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan.
• Gently press it down until smooth on top.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes.

Step 6: Add Glaze

• In a small bowl, mix together glaze ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar).
• Spoon glaze over meatloaf and return it to the oven for an additional 20–30 minutes.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf!

How to Serve Meatloaf

Serving meatloaf can be as creative as you want! This classic dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Classic Style

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless companion to meatloaf, providing a comforting and hearty side.
• Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a crisp texture and a fresh contrast to the rich meatloaf.

Gourmet Twist

• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of warm garlic bread for a flavorful addition that complements the savory notes of the meatloaf.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings color and nutrition to your plate.

Light & Fresh

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and bright flavors, balancing the richness of the meatloaf.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the dish.

How to Perfect Meatloaf

Crafting the perfect meatloaf is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a tender texture without excess grease.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your meatloaf light and fluffy instead of dense.
• Add Moisture: Incorporate milk or broth in your mixture to ensure moisture throughout cooking.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain juices, making each slice more flavorful.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to try different herbs or spices like smoked paprika or thyme for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Meatloaf

Pairing side dishes with your meatloaf can enhance the meal significantly. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy addition that pairs well with meatloaf’s flavors while adding vibrant color.
2. Baked Potatoes: Easy to prepare, they can be topped with sour cream or chives for extra flavor.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory notes of meatloaf beautifully, especially when grilled or roasted.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs sauces well and adds a light touch to your meal.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide sweetness and crunch, creating an interesting contrast.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with vegetables that brings freshness and texture alongside the meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making meatloaf, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a more delicious result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the onion and garlic: These ingredients add flavor and moisture. Always sauté them before mixing into the meat.
• Using too much breading: Excess breadcrumbs can dry out the meatloaf. Stick to the recommended amount for a tender texture.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain juices. Don’t skip this step!
• Overmixing the meat: Overmixing can create a dense loaf. Mix gently until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Using a meat thermometer ensures your meatloaf is fully cooked without being dry. Aim for 160°F internally.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Meatloaf can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Meatloaf

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until hot, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Slice and warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about meatloaf:

What is the best meat for making Meatloaf?

Ground beef is popular, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

How do I keep my Meatloaf moist?

Adding moisture through sautéed vegetables and not overcooking are key factors in keeping your meatloaf moist.

Can I add vegetables to my Meatloaf?

Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition.

How should I serve Meatloaf?

Meatloaf is great served with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or even in sandwiches!

Final Thoughts

This meatloaf recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile. You can customize it with different meats or add your favorite spices and vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

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Classic Meatloaf

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this easy and delicious meatloaf recipe! This classic dish is incredibly tender and moist, enveloped in a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates its rich flavors. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this meatloaf will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds lean ground beef (or a mix of beef and chicken)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 3/4 cup ketchup (for meatloaf and glaze)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic for an additional 30 seconds before removing from heat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion mixture with ground meat, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
5. For the glaze, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Spoon it over the meatloaf and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes until cooked through.
6. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and garnishing with extra parsley if desired.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 120mg