The Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe 2023

This classic meatloaf recipe is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a healthy and delicious option that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. The leftovers are just as delicious as the first night and great for busy weeknights. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave and serve with your favorite side dishes.

What Characterizes the Best Meatloaf Recipe?

What makes this meatloaf recipe so unique is its perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s made with a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal, which results in a rich and flavorful loaf. Adding fresh vegetables and herbs like onion, celery, parsley, and thyme adds a bright and refreshing flavor. And, of course, the sauce on top is the perfect finishing touch, adding a tangy, sweet, and savory note that perfectly complements the meatloaf. The result is a moist, flavorful, and super-satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

While the ingredient list may seem long, this meatloaf recipe is quite simple. And the best part is that you likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge. Once you gather all the ingredients, you can have the meatloaf prepped and ready in 30 minutes. All that’s left to do is bake it in the oven for an hour and enjoy your delicious dinner! The prep time is quick and easy, making this an ideal weeknight meal.

What will you need to cook the Classic Meatloaf Recipe?

Lean ground beef: For the best flavor and texture, choosing the proper ground beef for your meatloaf is essential. For the most flavorful and moist meatloaf, I recommend using ground beef that is 90% lean.

Bread crumbs: it also serve an essential structural purpose. They act as a binder, helping the mixture hold together and preventing it from crumbling. Bread crumbs also help to soak up any excess moisture, resulting in a moist meatloaf that is not too wet. For the best results, I recommend using plain, unseasoned bread crumbs. This way, you can control the flavor and season the meatloaf to your liking.

Seasonings and herbs— It’s all about the seasoning of making a delicious meatloaf. Combining herbs and spices can make a simple meatloaf recipe come to life. I recommend garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme for this meatloaf recipe. These simple ingredients work together to create a savory, robust flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. They’re likely already in your pantry, so you don’t have to worry about tracking down any hard-to-find ingredients.

Meatloaf glaze recipe: The sweet and sour sauce takes this recipe to the next level. Combining ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard provides the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors—the vinegar’s acidity and the mustard’s tanginess help to brighten the flavor profile. The ketchup and brown sugar add a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory flavor of the meatloaf. This sauce helps to tie all the flavors together and give the dish its signature flavor.

Pro tip: You can use Italian-style breadcrumbs instead of the additional Italian seasoning.

How to make meatloaf from scratch: an easy recipe

If you’ve never had a great meatloaf, it’s time to change that! This recipe is foolproof and perfect for even the most novice home cook. Just follow these simple tips for the best results:

A common mistake when making meatloaf is overmixing the ingredients. If you mix too vigorously, the meat will become dense and chewy. The key is mixing just enough to combine everything while leaving some texture in the meat. Using lean ground beef is also essential, as it will help the meatloaf stay moist and juicy. When you remove the meatloaf from the oven, it’s important to rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

That’s right; adding milk to the meatloaf mixture helps to keep it moist and tender. The milk works by hydrating the breadcrumbs, which in turn helps to add moisture to the meatloaf as it cooks. You can substitute the milk with any non-dairy milk alternative for dairy-free people. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety so the flavor of your meatloaf isn’t impacted. And for extra moisture, you can also add a bit of olive oil or another healthy fat to the mixture.

What is the best meatloaf filling?

That’s right, breadcrumbs are the key to making the perfect meatloaf. They help to hold the meatloaf together while also absorbing excess moisture. And as you mentioned, adding milk to the breadcrumbs is essential. The milk hydrates the breadcrumbs and creates a velvety texture that keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful. For an extra moist meatloaf, you can soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes before adding them to the meat mixture.

Should onions be cooked before being added to meatloaf?

One of the best things about this meatloaf recipe is that you don’t need to sauté the onions before adding them. The onions will cook perfectly in the oven, and the other moist ingredients, like milk and eggs, will keep them from drying out. Plus, the onions’ moisture will help keep the meatloaf moist and delicious. No need to dirty an extra pan; just throw everything together in a bowl, and you’re ready to bake.

Expert Advice for Making the Perfect Meatloaf

For an extra-juicy, flavorful meatloaf, be sure to include all of the wet ingredients. The milk, eggs, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce all play an essential role in keeping the meatloaf moist and delicious. The Worcestershire sauce also adds a taste of umami flavor, taking the meatloaf to the next level. If you want to experiment with flavors, add other wet ingredients like BBQ sauce, honey, or mustard. Just be sure to keep the wet-to-dry ingredient ratio the same to maintain the consistency of the meatloaf.

When cooking meatloaf, it’s essential to know when it’s done so you don’t end up with undercooked or overcooked meat. The best way to do this is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. The ideal temperature for cooked meatloaf is 160 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can insert a knife into the center of the meatloaf to check for doneness. The knife should come out clean with no pink juices. Finally, let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

What makes meatloaf taste so good?

If you want to make a good meatloaf, it’s essential to start with quality ingredients. Fresh, lean ground beef will give the best flavor and texture. You can add herbs, vegetables, and spices to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor. But be careful not to overdo it, or the meatloaf will be dry. Once the ingredients are mixed, shape the meatloaf into a loaf and bake it at a moderate temperature for the proper amount of time. You’ll know it’s done when it’s firm to the touch and reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to make meatloaf How long does meatloaf take to cook?

You can’t go wrong with this classic meatloaf recipe for a busy weeknight. With just 30 minutes of hands-on prep time, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time. Once the meatloaf is in the oven, you can relax or take care of other things while it bakes. The oven does all the work, so you can sit back and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner. Plus, this recipe is easy to scale up or down, so you can make as much or as little as you need.

How is meatloaf kept moist?

Moisture is the key to a tender and juicy meatloaf. Breadcrumbs help to hold the meatloaf together, but if they’re too dry, they can make the meatloaf dry and crumbly. To avoid this, add enough moist ingredients like eggs, milk, and ketchup. These ingredients add moisture and flavor to the meatloaf, making it tender and delicious. Plus, these ingredients also help to create a nice crust on the outside of the meatloaf.

How can I improve my meatloaf?

When making meatloaf, it’s crucial to use meat with a higher fat content. Fat is what keeps the meatloaf moist and prevents it from drying out. Lean meat, on the other hand, can result in a dry and crumbly meatloaf. Aim for ground beef that is 80-85% lean, or ground pork or turkey with a similar fat content. And don’t forget the milk, eggs, and ketchup, which will help to add moisture and prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

How long should it bake for?

The cooking time for meatloaf depends on its size and the temperature of the oven. For a 1-pound meatloaf baked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take about 45 minutes to cook through. For a larger 2-pound meatloaf, it will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should be 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it reaches this temperature, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

How long should a 1-pound meatloaf cook?

Regarding baking meatloaf, 350°F is the optimal temperature for most ovens. At this temperature, the meatloaf will cook evenly without drying out. If your oven runs hot, you may need to reduce the temperature slightly to prevent over-browning. As for the cooking time, a good rule of thumb is 35 to 45 minutes per pound. So, a 1-pound meatloaf should take about 35 to 45 minutes to cook, while a 2-pound meatloaf should take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

How long should a two-pound meatloaf cook?

To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through and not dried out, bake it in a conventional oven at 350°F for at least 1 hour. A 2-pound meatloaf will need to cook for a total of 1 to 1 1/4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. A meat thermometer is the best way to test for doneness, so you can be sure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked. Remember to allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.

How long should a three lb. meatloaf cook?

A 3-pound meatloaf will take 1 1/2 and 2 hours to cook, so make sure to plan accordingly. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and then bake the meatloaf for about 1 hour. After the first hour, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should be around 150°F. Continue baking for another 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout.

At 375°F, how long should meatloaf cook?

Baking a 1-pound meatloaf at 375°F should take between 25 and 30 minutes. To ensure that the meatloaf is cooked through, the internal temperature should be at least 160°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer. If baking a bigger meatloaf, you may need to increase the baking time accordingly. It’s also essential to allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.

For a 2-pound meatloaf, you’ll want to bake it at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This will ensure that the meat is cooked through and not dry. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. Once it reaches 160°F, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. The resting time is important to allow the juices to settle back into the meatloaf.

For a 3-pound meatloaf, the cooking time at 350°F should be between 1 and 1 hour 15 minutes. You’ll want to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is at least 160°F. Once the meatloaf is done, it’s essential to let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it juicier and more flavorful. Once it’s rested, you can slice and serve it. A 3-pound meatloaf will yield about eight servings.

At 350°F, how long should meatloaf cook?

If you’re cooking a 1-pound meatloaf at 350°F, it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F after about 35 to 45 minutes. Of course, this may vary depending on your oven and your meatloaf’s exact size and shape. If you’re using a meat thermometer, insert it into the center of the meatloaf to get an accurate reading. To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through, make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F.

A 2-pound meatloaf will take between 1 and 1 1/2 hours to reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F when baked at 350°F. But it’s essential to check the meatloaf after 1 hour to ensure it’s not overcooking. The best way to do this is to use a meat thermometer. When the thermometer reads 160°F, the meatloaf is done. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can insert a knife into the center of the meatloaf.

A 3-pound meatloaf typically takes between 1 and 2 hours to cook at 350°F. The exact time will depend on your oven and the size and shape of the meatloaf. To be sure the meatloaf is cooked all the way through, it’s best to use a meat thermometer. When the thermometer reads 160°F, the meatloaf is done. Remember that the meatloaf will continue to cook for a few minutes after it’s removed from the oven, so you’ll want to take it out when it’s at 155°F or so.

Is meatloaf baked uncovered or covered?

This recipe calls for baking the meatloaf uncovered, allowing it to develop a nice crust on the outside while remaining moist on the inside. The milk in the mixture helps to keep the meatloaf moist as it cooks. In addition to being delicious on its own, this meatloaf is also the perfect base for various sauces. One popular option is a sweet, tangy glaze made with ketchup, brown sugar, and white vinegar. This glaze adds a nice bit of sweetness and tanginess that complements the savory flavor of the meatloaf.

What makes up meatloaf sauce?

The meatloaf glaze is a simple mixture of ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These pantry staples combine to create a sweet and tangy sauce that adds flavor to the meatloaf. Once the meatloaf is cooked, just brush on a layer of the glaze and pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to allow it to caramelize. As for leftover meatloaf, it makes a delicious sandwich the next day. Just spread some ketchup on two slices of bread and pile on the meatloaf.

Why does my meatloaf break apart?

 If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to serve with your meatloaf, look no further than mashed potatoes. This classic comfort food pairs perfectly with meatloaf’s hearty, savory flavor. Mashed potatoes are also a great way to soak up any delicious gravy from the meatloaf. Other side dishes for meatloaf include roasted garlic potatoes, creamed spinach, and sautéed broccoli with garlic. All of these dishes complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf while providing a healthy dose of vegetables.

Can meatloaf be frozen? Can meatloaf be made on a baking sheet?

While most meatloaf recipes call for a loaf pan, it is possible to make meatloaf on a baking sheet. To do this, simply shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape on the baking sheet. It’s a good idea to line the baking sheet with foil to make cleanup easier. You can also add extra oil or cooking spray to the baking sheet to prevent the meatloaf from sticking. Once the meatloaf is shaped, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions.

Meatloaf dinner at home: Why does my meatloaf break apart?

For a moist and delicious meatloaf, it’s vital to incorporate eggs and breadcrumbs into the meat mixture. The eggs help to bind the meat together, while the breadcrumbs add moisture and texture. It’s also important to cook the meatloaf at the right temperature and not to overcook it. Overcooked meatloaf can be dry and tough. If you follow these tips, you’ll end up with a meatloaf that’s perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

How is meatloaf kept from falling apart?

A common mistake people make when making meatloaf is not adding enough eggs and breadcrumbs. These ingredients act as a binder, holding the meatloaf together and preventing it from crumbling. The meatloaf will fall apart if there are not enough eggs and breadcrumbs. It’s also important to cook the meatloaf at the right temperature and for the right time. Overcooked meatloaf will be dry and crumbly. So, follow the recipe carefully to avoid these mistakes.

How do you make meatloaf so it can be frozen?

It’s possible to make meatloaf ahead of time and freeze it for later use. You can either form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing or cook it and freeze it once it’s cooled. Either way, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and easy meal later on. Just be sure to thaw the meatloaf in the fridge overnight before cooking so it cooks evenly.

For the best results, reheat meatloaf in the oven. Simply place the meatloaf in a baking dish, add a little liquid (water, beef broth, or gravy), and cover with foil. Heat the oven to 250°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is heated. The liquid will help to keep the meatloaf moist and prevent it from drying out. If you’re pressed for time, you can reheat the meatloaf in the microwave, but the quality will not be as good.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (90 percent lean)
• 1 large white onion (diced)
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp garlic cloves (minced)
• 4 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1. Combine the ground beef, onion, eggs, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, breadcrumbs, milk, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Combine thoroughly by mixing.

Step 2. Fill the prepared loaf pan with the meatloaf mixture. Bake for forty minutes at 375 F.

Step 3. Start making the sauce for the meatloaf. Combine the ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Mix the ingredients well with a whisk. After 15 minutes of baking, pour the meatloaf glaze over the top.

The meatloaf should rest for five minutes. Enjoy after topping with fresh parsley!

Calories

Calories: 406 | Carbs: 22 grams; Protein: 23g | Fat: 25 grams | Satin Fat: 9 grams | Monounsaturated Fat: 1 gram | Fat, monounsaturated: 11 grams; Trans Fat: 1 gram | Sodium: 123 milligrams 1231 milligrams 556 milligrams Sugar: 1g Vitamin A: 13g Vitamin C: 519 IU Calcium: 6mg 86 milligrams 3mg