Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic meatloaf—it’s the dish that brings back fond memories of family dinners and home-cooked warmth. This old-fashioned meatloaf recipe hugs you with its savory goodness, combining rich ground beef with a delightful assortment of seasonings, all topped off with a sweet tomato glaze that tantalizes your taste buds. Whether you’re making it for a Sunday supper or a busy weekday meal, this meatloaf is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 1 cup fine breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Sweet Tomato Glaze
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs are soft and absorb the milk.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, diced onion, beaten eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients just until they are combined—be careful not to overmix, or the meatloaf may become tough.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and gently pat the top smooth with a spatula or your hands.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar until the mixture is smooth.
- Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Place it in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven, spread the remaining glaze on top, and return it to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve this heartwarming dish hot.
Notes or Tips
For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a few diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to the mix. You can also swap out the spices for your favorites—experiment with barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky twist!
Cooking Techniques
When mixing your meatloaf, remember that the less you handle the meat, the better! This helps keep your loaf tender. If you prefer, you can also use a meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking—an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) guarantees it’s fully cooked through.
FAQ
Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes very well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in a preheated oven.
Conclusion
This classic old-fashioned meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s a warm embrace after a long day. With its tender texture and rich, comforting flavors topped with a sweet glaze, it invites you to sit down and enjoy a hearty dinner with loved ones. Give it a try, and it just might become your new family favorite!