The aroma of an Old-Fashioned Meatloaf baking in the oven is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine the rich scent of seasoned beef mingling with savory onions, enveloping your kitchen in delicious nostalgia. delicious meatball alternative That first slice, with its tender texture and comforting flavors, makes you feel right at home. For more inspiration, check out this bourbon BBQ meatball subs recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of meat is best for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf?
- Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Meatloaf?
- How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, nothing beats the satisfaction of serving up this classic dish. The anticipation builds as you slice into that perfectly cooked loaf, revealing a juicy interior just waiting to be devoured. hearty side dish option
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Its comforting flavors remind you of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. The visual appeal comes from its golden-brown crust and juicy interior, sure to impress everyone at the table. It’s versatile enough to pair with mashed potatoes or veggies for a complete meal. [/info_box]
I still remember the first time I made meatloaf; my friends couldn’t believe I had actually cooked something so delicious!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose a mix that’s about 80% lean for the perfect balance between flavor and moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Use fresh or dried breadcrumbs to help bind the meatloaf while keeping it tender.
Eggs: They act as a binder; two large eggs will do the trick nicely.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sautéing it beforehand enhances its flavor.
Ketchup: A classic topping that provides moisture and adds tangy sweetness to every bite.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash elevates the flavor profile with umami goodness.
Salt and Pepper: These essentials ensure your meatloaf is well-seasoned without overpowering other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil for easy cleanup later.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and toss in finely chopped onions. Cook until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes will do.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cooked onions, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and half of your ketchup. Mix gently but thoroughly; avoid overworking the meat.
Shape Your Loaf: Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish. Shape it into a loaf form—think of it as crafting your culinary masterpiece!
Add Topping and Bake: Spread the remaining ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for that signature glaze. Bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour or until it’s beautifully browned and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Rest Before Slicing: Once baked, allow your meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain all those juicy flavors inside!
Now you have yourself an Old-Fashioned Meatloaf that’s perfect for any occasion! Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans to complete this comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. perfect breakfast pairing Enjoy every hearty slice!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food that tantalizes your taste buds. The savory aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist. It’s perfect for family dinners and leftovers, delivering joy on every plate. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix ingredients while the oven heats, then form the loaf and place it in a pan. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your meatloaf with different meats like turkey or chicken. Add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra flavor kick. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the dish into a personal masterpiece.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To enhance this Old-Fashioned Meatloaf, ensure you avoid over-mixing to keep it tender. Always check the internal temperature to avoid dryness. Pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic meal experience. [/info_box]
Sharing my first Old-Fashioned Meatloaf experience brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone asked for seconds. decadent dessert choice The smiles made all my efforts worthwhile!
FAQ
What type of meat is best for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf?
For more inspiration, check out this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole recipe.
Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey also works well as a lighter option.
Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Meatloaf?
Yes! Wrap tightly in foil and freeze before or after cooking for later enjoyment.
How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (70°C) when properly cooked.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Experience the warmth and nostalgia of a homemade Old-Fashioned Meatloaf. This classic comfort dish combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic onions, and a touch of tangy ketchup for a savory delight that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknight meals. With its golden-brown crust and juicy interior, this meatloaf is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (fresh or dried)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup ketchup (divided)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cooked onions, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and half the ketchup. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the greased baking dish.
- Spread the remaining ketchup on top for glaze. Bake for about 1 hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
