Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef
1 cup of milk
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup of chopped onion
1 cup of bread crumbs
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of dried sage
1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/2 cup of ketchup
1/4 cup of packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon of mustard

Steps and instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, chopped onion, bread crumbs, eggs, salt, ground black pepper, sage, and thyme. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased 9x5 inch loaf pan, or form into a loaf and place in a lightly greased roasting pan.
In a separate small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this mixture over the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ground beef and other ingredients.
Loaf Pan or Roasting Pan - A pan to shape and cook the meatloaf in.
Measuring Cup - A cup to measure the milk, ketchup, and brown sugar.
Measuring Spoons - Spoons to measure the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, sage, thyme, and mustard.
Garlic Press or Mincer - A tool to mince the garlic cloves.
Chopping Board - A board to chop the onion.
Chef's Knife - A knife to chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Whisk or Fork - A tool to whisk or beat the eggs.
Basting Brush - A brush to spread the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard mixture over the meatloaf.
Oven - An appliance to preheat and bake the meatloaf.

Recipe variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
Add finely diced bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and texture.
Substitute the bread crumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a different texture.
Experiment with different spices and herbs such as paprika, rosemary, or cumin to customize the flavor profile.
Add shredded cheese to the meatloaf mixture for a cheesy twist.
Try topping the meatloaf with barbecue sauce or a glaze made from honey and soy sauce.
Make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Create a vegetarian alternative by using a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh, and adjusting the seasonings accordingly.

Recipe overview

This classic Meatloaf recipe is a true comfort food, guaranteed to take you back to your childhood days. Made with lean ground beef and a perfect blend of flavorful ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, and a mix of spices, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. The loaf is topped with a sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, adding a delightful contrast to the savory meat. Baked to perfection, this meatloaf is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. This recipe is simple to follow, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Get ready to enjoy a slice of nostalgia with this delicious homemade meatloaf.

Common questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Can I use a different type of sauce instead of ketchup?
Yes, you can experiment with different sauces like barbecue sauce or tomato sauce instead of ketchup for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if the meatloaf is chilled.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160 degrees F (70 degrees C) when fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover meatloaf. Just slice it into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix all the ingredients together.
Loaf Pan - A 9x5 inch loaf pan to shape and bake the meatloaf.
Roasting Pan - An alternative to the loaf pan, for shaping and baking the meatloaf.
Measuring Cups - To accurately measure the ingredients, such as milk and ketchup.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure spices and seasonings.
Spatula - To mix the ingredients and spread the ketchup mixture over the meatloaf.
Basting Brush - To evenly spread the ketchup mixture over the meatloaf.
Meat Thermometer - To check the internal temperature of the meatloaf and ensure it is fully cooked.
Cutting Board - To let the meatloaf rest and for slicing before serving.
Knife - For slicing the meatloaf into individual servings.

Origin stories

Meatloaf has an intriguing history that can be traced back to the Roman Empire. The earliest recorded recipe for a meatloaf-type dish can be found in the Roman cookery collection "Apicius," dating back to the 5th century. However, the meatloaf we know and love today truly found its footing in American cuisine during the Great Depression. The inexpensive, filling ingredients made it a popular choice during a time of economic hardship. In fact, meatloaf was a staple of the wartime rationing program, where it was crafted to make the most of limited supplies of meat. It was during this period that ketchup, a classic meatloaf topping, became a popular addition as it helped to add flavor to the loaf and make the meat go further. Today, many variations of meatloaf exist, making it a versatile dish that is beloved in many regions around the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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