Meatloaf is a timeless classic comfort food that remains popular. When you’re craving some good old-fashioned home cooking, meatloaf really hits the spot. This meatloaf recipe produces a moist, flavorful meatloaf that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, vegetables, pasta, or whatever your favorite sides may be. In this article we talk about tasty Meatloaf Recipe.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus more for topping
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup milk
Step 1 – Mix Together Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, onions, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and milk. Gently combine everything using your hands until just mixed. You don’t want to overmix the meat or the meatloaf can become dense and tough.
Step 2 – Form Into Loaf & Place in Pan
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a 9×5 inch loaf pan and shape into an oblong loaf form. Smooth the top with your hands. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can also shape it into a free-form loaf on a rimmed baking sheet.
Step 3 – Brush Top with Ketchup
Spread a thin layer of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will help it develop a nice browned crust as it bakes.
Step 4 – Bake Meatloaf
Bake the meatloaf in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 55-65 minutes. After about 45 minutes, start checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. You want it to reach 160 degrees F.
Step 5 – Let Meatloaf Rest
When the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meatloaf for moister results.
Step 6 – Slice and Serve
Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve! I love pairing it with extra ketchup, a side of mashed potatoes, and some sautéed green beans. It’s a hearty, comforting meal everyone will love.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the most flavor and moisture. Going leaner can cause dry meatloaf.
- Mix the meatloaf ingredients gently with your hands rather than a spoon. Overmixing develops tough gluten strands.
- Resist sampling the raw meat. Eating uncooked beef carries a risk of food poisoning. Wait for the baked meatloaf!
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking allows the juices to absorb for more moist, tender slices.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze meatloaf slices for longer term storage. Simply reheat slices in the microwave to serve again.
Customize Your Meatloaf
One of the great things about meatloaf is how versatile it is when it comes to adaptations. Feel free to make these easy additions or swaps:
- Cheese lover? Add some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for gooey cheese pockets.
- Mix in chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or other vegetables.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for some or all of the beef.
- Add crumbled bacon for smoky richness and crunch.
- Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, basil or cilantro.
- Swap in barbecue sauce or brown gravy for the ketchup glaze.
- Use crushed saltines, oatmeal, or whole grain bread crumbs rather than panko.
This basic meatloaf recipe makes for a super moist, intensely flavorful loaf that I hope will become a regular in your dinner rotation. It reheats beautifully, so extras can be enjoyed all week long. From classic to customized, meatloaf offers comfort food at its very best. Dig in to this all-American classic, I sincerely hope you find this “Tasty Meatloaf Recipe” article helpful.
Jason Shaw is a culinary expert with 8 years of experience and a Master’s degree in Culinary Arts. His education from the Culinary Institute of America and his experience working in top-tier restaurants have equipped him with a deep understanding of advanced cooking techniques and innovative recipe creation. At RecipeBuster.com, Jason combines his academic background and practical expertise to offer unique and delicious recipes. Follow him on Instagram to explore his culinary adventures and insights.
