Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that many people have enjoyed for generations. This dish is not only tasty but also simple to make, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and family gatherings. With its hearty flavors and satisfying texture, meatloaf is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make this classic meatloaf recipe. First, it is a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup time in the kitchen. Second, the ingredients are easy to find and often staples in most homes. Third, it’s a great way to use up ground beef and create a filling dish that can feed a crowd. Lastly, it’s perfect for leftovers, as the flavors only improve after a day in the fridge.
How to Make Classic Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (or beef/pork blend)
- 1 cup diced onion (chopped small)
- ¾ cup bread crumbs (or panko crumbs)
- ⅓ cup milk (broth or water)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp white vinegar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and then line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- In a large bowl, add the lean ground beef, finely chopped onion, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Mix everything together really well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf by hand or pack it into a greased loaf pan and flip it over onto the baking sheet. Remove the loaf pan to reveal the perfect loaf shape.
- Bake the meatloaf uncovered and without the sauce topping for 40 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is cooking, mix together the ketchup and white vinegar.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the ketchup mixture along the top and sides. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until fully cooked inside.
- Once cooked, let the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes to allow the juices inside to distribute evenly. Slice into pieces and serve.
How to Serve Classic Meatloaf
Serve your meatloaf hot, sliced into thick pieces. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also offer additional ketchup or gravy on the side for extra flavor.
How to Store Classic Meatloaf
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to three days. You can also wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil for easy reheating. Meatloaf can be frozen for longer storage, just make sure to wrap it well.
Tips to Make Classic Meatloaf
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
- For added flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or spices like paprika to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the inside temperature reaches 160°F for safety.
Variation
You can customize this meatloaf by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or substituting different meats such as turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Some people enjoy adding cheese for a gooey surprise inside!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use different types of meat?
A1: Yes, you can use different meats such as ground turkey, chicken, or even a beef/pork blend for a different flavor.
Q2: Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q3: How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
A3: The best way to tell if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Classic Meatloaf
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (or beef/pork blend)
- 1 cup diced onion (chopped small)
- 0.75 cup bread crumbs (or panko crumbs)
- 0.33 cup milk (broth or water)
- 2 each eggs
- 1 tsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
Topping
- 0.75 cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp white vinegar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, diced onion, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf by hand or pack it into a greased loaf pan and flip it onto the baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 40 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the ketchup and white vinegar.
- Spread the ketchup mixture on top and sides of the meatloaf and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until fully cooked inside.
- Let the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
