If you’re looking for a comforting, classic dish with a twist, this is The Most Delicious Meatloaf You’ll Ever Make! Juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this meatloaf recipe will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of savory seasonings, tender ground meat, and a tangy glaze makes this recipe the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) ground beef
- ½ pound (225g) ground pork (optional, for extra flavor and moisture)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (90g) breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup (80ml) milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup (60ml) ketchup (for the meatloaf)
- ½ cup (120ml) ketchup (for the glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for the glaze)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for the glaze)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, paprika, Dijon mustard, and ¼ cup ketchup. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until well combined.
- Form the Loaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a loaf pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, spread the remaining glaze over the top and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic, hearty meal.
- Serve alongside a crisp salad and crusty bread for a lighter dinner.
- Use leftovers to make a meatloaf sandwich with toasted bread and a smear of mustard.
- Serve with roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts.
- Add a side of gravy or mushroom sauce for an extra layer of richness.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mixture of ground meats: Combining beef with pork adds extra moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
- Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender and avoid it becoming dense.
- Let the meatloaf rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking to keep the juices inside when slicing.
- Use a thermometer: For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Add vegetables: For more flavor and texture, add finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the meat mixture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein-Packed: Ground beef and pork provide high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Onions and garlic offer a boost of antioxidants and vitamins.
- Whole Grains: The breadcrumbs add fiber, aiding digestion.
- Low in Sugar: The glaze is sweetened with just a small amount of brown sugar for balance without overwhelming sweetness.
- Balanced Meal: Pairing the meatloaf with vegetables or salad makes it a nutritious and balanced meal.
Dietary Information
- High Protein
- Nut-Free
- Soy-Free
- Low-Sugar (use a sugar-free ketchup for an even lower sugar version)
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatloaf slices wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy and Flavorful: The perfect blend of seasonings and the sweet, tangy glaze make this meatloaf incredibly flavorful.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal prep time.
- Great for Leftovers: Meatloaf tastes even better the next day, and you can easily repurpose it for sandwiches or other meals.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, spices, or even cheese to the mix to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: This comforting and classic dish is sure to be loved by kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
This Delicious Meatloaf Recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With its tender, juicy texture and mouthwatering glaze, it’s the perfect centerpiece for a comforting meal. Whether you’re serving it for dinner with mashed potatoes or saving the leftovers for a sandwich the next day, this meatloaf will quickly become a household favorite. The simple ingredients and rich flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special family dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. - Can I substitute the ground pork?
Yes, you can use all ground beef or substitute the pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. - Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake when ready. - How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?
Using a mixture of ground meats, milk, and eggs helps keep the meatloaf moist. Avoid overcooking and let it rest before slicing. - What can I use instead of ketchup in the glaze?
You can use barbecue sauce or tomato paste mixed with a bit of vinegar and sweetener as a substitute for ketchup.