The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that evokes memories of home-cooked family dinners. With its tender texture, savory flavors, and hearty appeal, this meatloaf recipe is one that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity. The key to this delicious meatloaf is in the combination of fresh ingredients like sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh parsley, along with a tangy, sweet glaze that coats the meatloaf as it bakes. Let’s dive into making the best meatloaf you’ve ever tasted!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Comfort Food

There’s something undeniably comforting about meatloaf. With its deliciously savory flavor and hearty texture, it’s the perfect dish for cozy dinners at home.

2. Juicy and Flavorful

This recipe uses a combination of ground beef, fresh herbs, and spices to create a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that’s anything but dry.

3. Homemade Meatloaf Sauce

The sauce is a perfect balance of tangy ketchup, sweet brown sugar, and a touch of garlic and onion powder. It coats the meatloaf and adds an extra layer of flavor.

4. Easy to Make

This recipe is simple and requires no special equipment. A few basic ingredients and a bit of time are all it takes to make a delicious homemade meatloaf.

5. Versatile and Customizable

This meatloaf recipe can easily be customized by swapping in different meats or adjusting the seasoning to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground beef (80-85% lean)
• Medium onion (finely chopped)
• Olive oil
• Large eggs
• Garlic cloves (minced)
• Ketchup
• Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
• Milk
• Salt
• Italian seasoning
• Ground black pepper

For the Meatloaf Sauce:

• Ketchup
• White vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Variations

• Different Meats: Swap out half of the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork to adjust the flavor and make the meatloaf lighter.
• Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based meat substitute or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: For an extra indulgent touch, you can stuff the meatloaf with mozzarella cheese before baking.

How to Make the Best Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In a medium skillet, add 1 tsp of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the onions to a plate and let them cool.

Step 3: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, garlic, ketchup, parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Add the cooled onions to the mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 4: Shape Meatloaf and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, uncovered.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the meatloaf is baking, combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 6: Add the Glaze

After the first 40 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the sauce evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Best Meatloaf

• Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can result in a dense meatloaf. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a light, fluffy texture to the meatloaf. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking. This helps retain the juices, making it more flavorful and tender.
• Shape Matters: Shape the meatloaf evenly to ensure it cooks properly. If it’s too thick, it may take longer to cook through.
• Add Extra Veggies: If you like, you can mix in finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

How to Serve

This meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up any extra sauce. For a more indulgent touch, add a side of mac and cheese or roasted potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezing

To freeze, let the meatloaf cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake it the next day.

2. Can I use a loaf pan for baking?

Yes, you can bake the meatloaf in a loaf pan. Just make sure to increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for a more even bake.

3. What kind of ground beef should I use?

For the best flavor and texture, use ground beef that is 80-85% lean. This provides enough fat to keep the meatloaf juicy without being too greasy.

4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

5. How can I make my meatloaf more flavorful?

Add a mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and your favorite spices to elevate the flavor. You can also add a small amount of grated Parmesan or Worcestershire sauce for an extra punch.

6. How do I prevent the meatloaf from being dry?

To keep your meatloaf moist, don’t overmix the meat mixture and make sure you bake it just long enough. Adding milk and breadcrumbs will also help retain moisture.

7. Can I freeze meatloaf?

Yes, meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.

8. How long should I let meatloaf rest before slicing?

Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful slice.

9. What is the best way to serve meatloaf?

Serve meatloaf with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a side salad. For extra flavor, spoon some of the sauce over the top.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and make two meatloafs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed and check the internal temperature.

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf recipe is simple, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite in your home. With a savory meat mixture, a tangy glaze, and plenty of room for customization, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal for guests, this meatloaf will not disappoint. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that everyone will love!

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