The Ultimate Meatloaf - Easy Recipes (2024)

The Ultimate Meatloaf: A Classic Comfort Food Reimagined

Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food experience with our Best Ever Meatloaf Recipe! This classic dish takes on new life with a blend of savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a tangy-sweet glaze that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this meatloaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade meatloaf perfection!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp. brown sugar
• 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the loaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape, making sure to press it firmly into the pan.
4. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is nicely browned.
6. Rest and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the deliciousness!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Customize the Blend: Feel free to mix up the ground meats! Try a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal for a traditional flavor profile, or mix in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add Some Veggies: Sneak in some extra veggies by finely chopping carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms and adding them to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Experiment with Glazes: Get creative with the glaze! Try a BBQ glaze for a smoky twist, or a honey mustard glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

• Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Substitute the brown sugar in the glaze with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
• Low Carb Version: Similarly, for a lower-carb option, use almond flour or coconut flour in place of breadcrumbs. Opt for a low-carb ketchup or tomato sauce, and use a low-carb sweetener in the glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that turkey tends to be leaner than beef, so you may need to adjust the cooking time to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

Q: Can I make meatloaf ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Meatloaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Simply cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: Can I freeze leftover meatloaf? A: Yes, leftover meatloaf can be frozen for future meals. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I add cheese to the meatloaf mixture? A: Absolutely! Feel free to mix in shredded cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for an extra cheesy twist. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to account for the added saltiness of the cheese.

In conclusion, our Best Ever Meatloaf Recipe is a classic comfort food favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty blend of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and tangy-sweet glaze, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. So, why wait? Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a taste of homemade meatloaf perfection!