The aroma of Old-Fashioned Meatloaf wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug. Picture this: a perfectly baked loaf, golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside, with a tender, juicy interior just waiting to be sliced. Southern fried chicken Each bite brings an explosion of savory flavors that mingle together in a delightful dance of nostalgia.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use different meats for old-fashioned meatloaf?
- What toppings can I add to enhance my meatloaf?
- How do I know when my meatloaf is done cooking?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, my grandmother made the best meatloaf every Sunday. The family gathered around the table, laughter and stories filling the air as we devoured her famous creation. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a comforting ritual, and I can still hear her teasing me about my attempts to steal the last piece. cozy pot roast dinner This dish is perfect for cozy weeknights or special occasions when you want to bring everyone together for unforgettable flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is incredibly easy to make, even for beginners in the kitchen
- The blend of spices and meats creates a rich flavor that appeals to all ages
- It looks beautiful on any dinner plate, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy as leftovers in sandwiches or with mashed potatoes
I still remember my friend’s face when I first served this meatloaf at our potluck; he practically licked the plate clean!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and keep the meatloaf from falling apart. sweet banana bread.
- Onion: Finely chop one medium onion; it adds sweetness and depth to the meatloaf.
- Eggs: Two large eggs act as a binder to hold everything together beautifully.
- Ketchup: The classic topping brings tangy sweetness; feel free to add some on top before baking.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash enhances flavor complexity with its umami profile.
- Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme gives that comforting old-fashioned taste. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking of your meatloaf.
Sauté Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma; this usually takes about 5 minutes.
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and seasonings until well blended but don’t overmix—this keeps it tender. delicious beef stew.
Shape Your Loaf: Transfer your mixture onto a greased baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Shape it into a classic loaf form while ensuring it’s evenly shaped for even cooking.
Topping Time!: Smother the top with ketchup or your favorite barbecue sauce for that quintessential meatloaf flavor explosion; this makes every bite extra delicious.
Bake to Perfection: Place your meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You’ll know it’s ready when it smells heavenly!
Enjoy creating this Old-Fashioned Meatloaf that’s sure to fill your home with warmth and laughter just like my grandmother’s did! For more inspiration, check out this caramel coconut cookies recipe.
You Must Know
- Preparing old-fashioned meatloaf can evoke nostalgia; the aroma fills your home, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere
- Perfect for family gatherings, it’s a classic comfort dish that never goes out of style
- Mastering this recipe will impress everyone at your dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the ingredients well, then shape the meatloaf and bake it at 350°F for about an hour. Let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add cheese for extra flavor. Experimenting with spices can also elevate your meatloaf to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent a dry meatloaf, don’t overmix the ingredients; just combine until moist
- Adding breadcrumbs soaked in milk helps maintain moisture too
- Always let it rest before slicing for juiciness!
Personal anecdote: I still remember my grandmother’s meatloaf, which brought our family together every Sunday—her secret was always a touch of love and patience!
FAQ
Can I use different meats for old-fashioned meatloaf?
Yes, using pork or turkey adds unique flavors and textures to your meatloaf.
What toppings can I add to enhance my meatloaf?
Consider ketchup or barbecue sauce on top for a sweet glaze that complements the flavors.
How do I know when my meatloaf is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F when fully cooked and safe to eat.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is a heartwarming classic that brings families together. This tender, juicy dish is enveloped in a savory blend of spices and topped with tangy ketchup for a delightful flavor explosion. Perfect for cozy weeknights or special gatherings, this meatloaf is easy to make and sure to impress every time you serve it.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on a greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Top with additional ketchup or barbecue sauce.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Let rest before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
