Best Meatloaf Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food

Meatloaf is a quintessential comfort food that has been a family favorite for generations. It's a dish that combines ground meat with a variety of seasonings and ingredients, shaped into a loaf and baked to perfection. This versatile dish can be served as a main course for dinner and makes excellent leftovers for sandwiches the next day. In this detailed food blog article, we’ll explore the best meatloaf recipe, providing you with all the necessary ingredients, step-by-step instructions, kitchen tools required, and some background information to make this dish a success.

Background

Meatloaf has its roots in Europe, with early versions dating back to ancient Rome. The modern American meatloaf became popular in the late 19th century, evolving from scrapple, a mixture of ground pork and cornmeal. It became a staple during the Great Depression due to its affordability and the ability to stretch ingredients. Over the years, meatloaf recipes have evolved, incorporating various meats, seasonings, and fillers, making it a beloved dish across the United States.

Best Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

• For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

• For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

   • In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
   • Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
   • Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

3. Shape the Meatloaf:

   • Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a baking dish. Shape the mixture into a loaf, approximately 9x5 inches.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
   • Brush half of the glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf.

5. Bake the Meatloaf:

   • Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
   • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top and sides.
   • Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and Serve:

   • Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for easier slicing.
   • Serve the meatloaf slices with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

Kitchen Tools Required

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl (for the glaze)
• Baking sheet or baking dish
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife (for chopping ingredients and slicing the meatloaf)
• Cutting board
• Whisk (for mixing the glaze)
• Meat thermometer (to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the correct temperature)

Variations and Tips

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: For a cheesy surprise, stuff the center of the meatloaf with mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Simply form half of the meatloaf mixture into a loaf, create a well in the center, add the cheese, and then cover with the remaining meatloaf mixture.
• Vegetable Additions: Boost the nutritional value by adding finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture.
• Spicy Meatloaf: Add a kick to your meatloaf by incorporating diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture.

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf recipe is the perfect blend of savory flavors and tender, juicy meat. The glaze adds a delicious sweetness that complements the seasoned meat perfectly. With detailed instructions and tips, you can easily recreate this comfort food favorite in your own kitchen. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!