Meatloaf is a comforting classic that makes for a hearty dinner. This homemade meatloaf recipe is simple to prepare and uses basic ingredients that you likely have on hand. It’s perfect for a family meal and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp ketchup
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of ketchup. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
- Form the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently to form an even loaf. Smooth out the top with the back of a spoon.
- Add the Topping:
- Spread the remaining 1 tablespoon of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a nice glaze and extra flavor as it bakes.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The meatloaf should be browned on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the loaf, making it easier to slice.
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice it into thick pieces. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a classic, comforting meal.
Tips for Perfect Meatloaf
- Choose the Right Ground Beef:
- Using ground beef with a bit of fat (such as 80/20) will keep your meatloaf moist and flavorful. Leaner beef can result in a drier meatloaf, so if you prefer lean meat, consider adding a bit more milk or an additional egg to keep it moist.
- Mix Gently:
- Over-mixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a dense and tough loaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Let it Rest:
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice and preventing it from falling apart.
- Customize Your Meatloaf:
- Feel free to add your favorite seasonings and ingredients to the meatloaf mixture. Chopped garlic, bell peppers, grated cheese, Worcestershire sauce, or fresh herbs like parsley and thyme can add extra flavor.
Variations
- Cheesy Meatloaf:
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) to the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.
- BBQ Meatloaf:
- Substitute the ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor. You can also mix some BBQ sauce into the meat mixture.
- Italian Meatloaf:
- Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of marinara sauce to the meat mixture. Top with marinara sauce instead of ketchup.
- Turkey Meatloaf:
- Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef for a lighter version. Adjust cooking time as needed since turkey cooks faster than beef.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Meatloaf freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for meatloaf.
- Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or broccoli complement meatloaf nicely.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad or coleslaw can add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the hearty meatloaf.
- Gravy: Serve with a rich beef gravy or mushroom gravy for extra flavor.
Homemade meatloaf is a simple and satisfying dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious and hearty meal that the whole family will love. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing this timeless dish!
