The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf is the quintessential comfort food—easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing leftovers for the week. This meatloaf recipe brings together ground beef, fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and a sweet and tangy glaze, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, this meatloaf is always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of seasonings and the special homemade sauce makes this meatloaf recipe stand out as one of the best.

This recipe is simple yet delivers a flavorful, juicy meatloaf every time. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like it came from a family diner but is homemade and customizable to your taste. Whether it’s your first time making meatloaf or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tender and Juicy

This meatloaf is perfectly moist thanks to the balance of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and milk. The result is a juicy, tender loaf that won’t dry out.

2. Homemade Meatloaf Sauce

The sauce is made from scratch with ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder. It adds a tangy, sweet kick that enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.

3. Simple and Affordable Ingredients

With basic ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, you don’t need to break the bank to make this delicious meal.

4. Customizable

You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

5. Great for Meal Prep

This meatloaf is perfect for making ahead. It stores well in the fridge for leftovers or can be frozen for a future meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground beef (85% or 80% 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

• Meat Substitutes: Replace half the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a leaner option.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the meat mixture to give it a spicy twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep

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

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

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

Step 3: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, chopped parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Shape Meatloaf and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 40 minutes, or until the meatloaf is mostly cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Add the Glaze

Spread the sauce over the top of the meatloaf. 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 the Meatloaf

After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough texture. Mix just until combined.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• Rest the Meatloaf: Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain its moisture and makes slicing easier.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
• To Bake in a Loaf Pan: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, gently press the meat mixture into the pan, and increase the oven temperature to 375°F for baking.

How to Serve

This meatloaf is great served with a variety of side dishes:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of meatloaf.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and green beans are excellent sides for this hearty dish.
• Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatloaf.
• Sandwiches: Use leftover meatloaf to make sandwiches for lunch the next day—add some cheese and pickles for extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a quicker option.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftover meatloaf in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes per slice.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

2. Can I make this meatloaf in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

4. How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?

The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

5. Can I freeze meatloaf before cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake it from frozen, increasing the baking time as needed.

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

Ensure you don’t overcook the meatloaf and allow it to rest before slicing. The combination of milk, breadcrumbs, and the glaze helps keep it moist.

7. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meat mixture.

8. Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a different texture.

9. How do I make a gluten-free meatloaf?

Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.

10. Can I bake the meatloaf in a loaf pan?

Yes, if you prefer, you can bake the meatloaf in a loaf pan. Just increase the oven temperature to 375°F.

Conclusion

This meatloaf recipe is a surefire way to please everyone at the dinner table. It’s simple, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a classic comfort meal with mashed potatoes or on a sandwich for leftovers, this meatloaf is bound to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your dietary preferences. Make it tonight and enjoy the deliciousness that is homemade meatloaf!

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