hearty homemade meatloaf recipe

Meatloaf Recipe

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Get ready to enjoy a classic comfort food that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. This meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, with just a few basic ingredients. The result is a juicy, tender loaf that’s full of savory goodness. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite seasonings or toppings!

Recipe

meatloaf with sweet glaze

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. This recipe combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings to create a moist and tender loaf, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients. Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
  5. Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes:

  • For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs for a softer texture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serving: 6-8 people

Nutrition

This meatloaf recipe is packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories350 kcal
Protein25g
Fat18g
Carbs20g
Fiber2g
Sodium800mg

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a comforting meal. For drinks, I find a glass of red wine or a cold beer brings out the flavors perfectly. Sometimes, I’ll even go for a fizzy soda if I’m in the mood for something lighter!

Side Dishes

When I’m planning a meal with meatloaf, I always think about sides that balance its hearty, savory flavor. For vegetable pairings, I love roasted carrots or green beans—they’re simple but add a fresh touch. Mashed potatoes are a must; they soak up the meatloaf’s juices perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up a creamy spinach gratin. Dessert suggestions? Something light like a fruit salad or lemon bars works well after such a filling meal. Pairing sides and sweets thoughtfully makes the whole meal satisfying without being too heavy. It’s all about balance!

Beverage Pairings

Ever wonder what drink complements a slice of meatloaf? I love pairing it with a bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec—their rich flavors balance the savory dish perfectly. If you’re not into wine, try a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned; its sweetness cuts through the meatloaf’s heartiness. For something lighter, a crisp lager or amber ale works wonders. And if you’re keeping it simple, iced tea or lemonade always hits the spot. Trust me, the right beverage can turn a cozy meal into something special. What’s your go-to drink with meatloaf?

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