If you’re craving a comforting, easy-to-make meal that will impress your guests, look no further than Ina Garten’s take on a classic meatloaf recipe. Known for her simple, yet elegant cooking style, Ina’s meatloaf recipe brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors, ensuring a moist and savory loaf every time. Whether you’re looking to serve it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a larger gathering, this meatloaf is a winner. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

This meatloaf stands out thanks to its unique seasoning blend and the use of fresh ingredients. The combination of tender ground beef, hearty breadcrumbs, and rich seasonings creates a flavor-packed loaf that is guaranteed to be a hit. Ina’s recipe makes the process incredibly simple while maintaining that home-cooked taste everyone loves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple to Make

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow and doesn’t require any advanced cooking skills.

2. Full of Flavor

Thanks to a balanced blend of seasonings and fresh ingredients, this meatloaf is full of rich, savory flavors in every bite.

3. Moist and Tender

The combination of ground beef, eggs, and breadcrumbs ensures a tender, moist meatloaf that won’t dry out.

4. Family-Friendly

This recipe is perfect for families, especially picky eaters. It’s a classic comfort food that everyone can enjoy.

5. Versatile

This meatloaf is versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh green salad.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Eggs
Garlic, minced
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Fresh parsley
Bread crumbs
Milk
Salt and pepper

For the Meatloaf Sauce:

Ketchup
Brown sugar
White vinegar
Garlic powder
Onion powder

Variations

Ground Meat Substitutes: You can swap the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer leaner meat.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture to give your meatloaf a spicy twist.
Vegetable Addition: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make this recipe gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onions, eggs, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, fresh parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf. Bake, uncovered, for 40 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the sauce by combining ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Glaze the Meatloaf

After 40 minutes of baking, spread the sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbly.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender meatloaf.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until combined.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C).
Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and retain its moisture.
Customize the Glaze: You can adjust the sauce by adding hot sauce, mustard, or extra brown sugar depending on your taste preference.

How to Serve

This meatloaf is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, including:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of meatloaf perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans make excellent side dishes.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatloaf.
Sandwiches: Leftover meatloaf can be sliced and served on a sandwich with cheese and condiments for a delicious lunch.

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 meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it 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 use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatloaf. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

2. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

3. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

4. Can I freeze the meatloaf before cooking it?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake it from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

5. Can I make the meatloaf without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute breadcrumbs with oats, crushed crackers, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

6. What should I serve with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a green salad are classic sides that pair well with meatloaf.

7. How do I store leftover meatloaf?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

8. How do I reheat leftover meatloaf?

Reheat leftover meatloaf in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a few minutes.

9. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

10. How do I keep the meatloaf moist?

To keep the meatloaf moist, don’t overmix the meat mixture, and make sure to let it rest after baking.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s meatloaf recipe is a simple, flavorful, and comforting dish that is sure to please. With easy-to-follow instructions and the perfect balance of seasonings, this meatloaf will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy. Make it today, and enjoy the classic flavors of homemade meatloaf!