Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Old Fashioned Meatloaf is a comforting classic that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. This recipe showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. The combination of ground beef with a rich topping sauce ensures each slice is moist and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this meatloaf can be made by anyone, regardless of cooking skill.
• Flavorful: The blend of herbs, spices, and a tangy sauce creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or use leftovers in sandwiches or salads for a quick meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty dish, making it perfect for family gatherings.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference when preparing Old Fashioned Meatloaf. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Large sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and provides a stable base for your meatloaf.
• Parchment paper or foil: Makes cleanup easy by preventing sticking and allows for hassle-free removal after baking.

Ingredients

For this Old Fashioned Meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 medium sized yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (can use less or replace with 1Tbsp fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Topping Sauce

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard

How to Make Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Soak the Bread Crumbs

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup panko bread crumbs with 1 cup milk. Stir until fully mixed.

Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until fragrant and slightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic, and cook an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds ground beef, 1 large egg, soaked bread crumbs with milk, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, kosher salt, and the cooked onions and garlic. Mix gently using your hands to avoid overworking the meat. Shape into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet and cut a crisscross pattern on top.

Step 5: Bake Uncovered

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.

Step 6: Add Topping

While baking, mix together ketchup, spicy brown mustard, and brown sugar in a bowl. After 40 minutes of cooking time, spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 7: Finish Baking

Continue baking for another 30-35 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Serve warm with your choice of sides for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Serving Old Fashioned Meatloaf can elevate your dining experience. Pairing it with the right accompaniments enhances its flavors and makes for a comforting meal.

Classic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a traditional side that complements meatloaf beautifully. Add butter and garlic for extra richness.

Green Beans Almondine

• Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds provide a crunchy texture and fresh taste, balancing the savory meatloaf.

Side Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness to your meal, creating a light contrast to the hearty meatloaf.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can add color and nutrition, enhancing the overall presentation of your plate.

Macaroni and Cheese

• This comforting dish is indulgent and pairs wonderfully with meatloaf. Try adding breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.

Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your meatloaf, making every bite delicious.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Perfecting your Old Fashioned Meatloaf involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure a moist and flavorful result:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality ground beef make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Combine the ingredients gently to keep the meatloaf tender. Overworking can lead to a dense texture.
• Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps retain juices, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart when sliced.
• Customize spices: Feel free to add spices or herbs you love to enhance the flavor profile according to your taste.
• Use a thermometer: Checking for an internal temperature of 160°F ensures your meatloaf is safely cooked without being dry.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Choosing the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal with your Old Fashioned Meatloaf. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with roasted garlic create a rich side that pairs perfectly.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a crisp texture.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the savory meatloaf, adding natural sweetness and crunch.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the meatloaf.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes – These offer a sweet contrast; bake them until tender for a nutritious side.
6. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing adds lightness and health benefits.
7. Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs creates an aromatic base that enhances each bite of meatloaf.
8. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and flavor, making them an appealing choice alongside meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Old Fashioned Meatloaf is easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can lead to a dense meatloaf. Combine the ingredients gently and just until blended.
• Skipping the breadcrumbs: Bread crumbs help keep the meatloaf moist. Don’t skip them; they are essential for texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision in measuring can affect the outcome. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can impact the cooking process. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting your meatloaf rest after baking allows juices to redistribute. Don’t slice immediately; wait about 10 minutes for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Old Fashioned Meatloaf in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Old Fashioned Meatloaf

• Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Old Fashioned Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice the meatloaf and place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist, and cover with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Old Fashioned Meatloaf.

How do I make my Old Fashioned Meatloaf more flavorful?

Adding herbs like thyme or parsley, along with spices such as garlic powder or onion powder, will enhance flavor significantly.

Can I substitute ground turkey for beef in Old Fashioned Meatloaf?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative, but you may need to adjust cooking times due to its lower fat content.

What side dishes pair well with Old Fashioned Meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad that complements its savory flavors.

How long should I bake my Old Fashioned Meatloaf?

Bake your meatloaf at 350°F for about 70-75 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Meatloaf recipe is not only easy to prepare but is also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables based on your taste preferences. Whether served with classic sides or turned into sandwiches, it’s sure to be a hit!

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Old Fashioned Meatloaf

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: About 8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the comforting delight of Old Fashioned Meatloaf, a timeless recipe that evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals. This savory dish combines ground beef with a medley of flavorful ingredients, resulting in a moist and delicious loaf that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. With its tangy topping sauce and hearty texture, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite at your table. It’s not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to fit into your meal prep routine. Enjoy it fresh or use leftovers in sandwiches and salads for quick meals throughout the week.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Soak panko bread crumbs in milk for a few minutes until fully absorbed.
3. In a sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat; cook diced onion until fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked bread crumbs, cooked onion and garlic mixture, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and salt. Mix gently until combined.
5. Shape into a loaf on the baking sheet and cut a crisscross pattern on top.
6. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
7. Mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard; spread over meatloaf after initial baking time.
8. Continue baking for another 30-35 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 125g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 80mg