Meatloaf Recipe

This meatloaf recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort food to your table in less than an hour. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a simple weeknight meal, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion. The juicy meatloaf topped with a sweet glaze will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 10 minutes and baked in 45, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Tender and Juicy: The combination of ground beef and panko breadcrumbs ensures that your meatloaf remains moist and flavorful.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients like ground turkey or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet glaze on top makes it appealing to children, helping to encourage them to eat their veggies on the side.
• Great for Leftovers: This meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or sandwich fillings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make this process smooth. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating a delicious meatloaf.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for your meatloaf, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Catches any drippings from the meatloaf, keeping your oven clean.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds 80%-90% ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup beef broth (or milk)
• 2 large eggs (whisked)
• 2-3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 1/4 teaspoons Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Glaze

• 2/3 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (you could mix half and half)
• 2-3 tablespoons light brown sugar

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet or a 9×5-inch loaf pan with foil. Lightly spray it with non-stick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
* Ground beef
* Panko breadcrumbs
* Beef broth (or milk)
* Whisked eggs
* Chopped parsley
* Worcestershire sauce
* Ketchup
* Kosher salt
* Black pepper
* Garlic powder
* Onion powder

Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing as it may lead to a tougher texture.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Press the mixture into your prepared loaf pan or form it into a loaf shape directly on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup (or BBQ sauce) with brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the top of your shaped meatloaf. Optionally, sprinkle some black pepper on top.

Step 5: Bake Your Meatloaf

Bake for about 45 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F. After baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into portions.

Enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf!

How to Serve Meatloaf Recipe

Serving your meatloaf can elevate the meal and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present your delicious meatloaf recipe.

Classic with Mashed Potatoes

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that complements the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
• Gravy: Drizzle some savory gravy over the meatloaf and potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.

Sandwich Style

• Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice leftover meatloaf and serve it on bread with lettuce and tomato for a tasty sandwich option.
• Barbecue Sauce: Add some BBQ sauce to the sandwich for a smoky twist.

On a Salad

• Meatloaf Salad: Cut meatloaf into cubes and toss it over a fresh garden salad. This adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
• Dressing Options: Use ranch or vinaigrette dressing to enhance the flavors.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Vegetables: Pair your meatloaf with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side that balances the richness.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots and zucchini make a colorful and flavorful addition.

How to Perfect Meatloaf Recipe

Perfecting your meatloaf can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your meatloaf turns out fantastic every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and quality meat yield better flavor and texture compared to stale or low-quality ingredients.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your meatloaf tender. Overmixing leads to a dense loaf.
• Add Moisture: Incorporating beef broth or milk helps keep the meat moist during baking, preventing dryness.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness; aim for 160°F for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps retain juices, making each slice more flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Meatloaf Recipe

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that pair well with this classic meatloaf recipe. Each brings out different flavors and textures.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra glaze from the meatloaf.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the hearty nature of the meatloaf.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes nicely; grill or boil it as a simple side.
4. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs well with savory meatloaf, creating a classic comfort food combination.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the loaf.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are an easy, crowd-pleasing side that everyone will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making meatloaf is simple, but small mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can lead to a dense meatloaf. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the meatloaf right after baking can cause it to lose juices. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of key ingredients can alter the flavor and texture. Always measure carefully, especially for salt and spices.
• Choosing the wrong meat: Using lean meat can result in a dry loaf. Opt for ground beef with a fat content of 80%-90% for optimal juiciness.
• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Place it in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Freezing Meatloaf Recipe

• You can freeze meatloaf for up to 3 months.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Meatloaf Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the meatloaf with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice the meatloaf and place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this meatloaf recipe so easy?

This easy meatloaf recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this meatloaf recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef. Just note that turkey may produce a drier result, so consider adding extra moisture.

How do I customize my meatloaf recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or grated carrots, different spices, or even cheese into the mixture for added flavor.

Can I make this meatloaf recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape it into a loaf, then refrigerate it overnight before baking.

What should I serve with my meatloaf?

Consider pairing your meatloaf with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This easy meatloaf recipe is not only tender and juicy but also versatile enough to suit any palate. With various customization options available, you can make this dish uniquely yours. We encourage you to try this delicious classic; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Meatloaf

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 8 people 1x

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Description

This delectable meatloaf recipe is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a perfect balance of flavors and textures in under an hour. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this juicy meatloaf features a sweet glaze that not only enhances its taste but also makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. With easy preparation and customizable ingredients, you can create a dish that suits any palate. Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fresh vegetables for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup beef broth (or milk)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2/3 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce
• 2–3 tablespoons light brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a loaf pan with foil.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, panko, broth, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and seasonings until combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf in the pan.
4. Combine ketchup and brown sugar for the glaze; pour over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45 minutes until cooked through at 160°F.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: For added moisture, consider mixing in grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots. Swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken if preferred. Allow resting time post-baking for enhanced flavor retention.