why make this recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home. This hearty meal is perfect for feeding a family and can be enjoyed as leftovers too!
how to make Classic Homemade Meatloaf
Making a classic homemade meatloaf is simple, and anyone can do it. Just follow these steps for a delicious and satisfying meal that you’ll want to make time and again.
Ingredients :
- 1 large egg ($0.18)
- ⅓ cup milk ($0.09)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce ($0.02)
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs ($0.16)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning ($0.10)
- ½ tsp garlic powder ($0.05)
- 1 tsp salt ($0.02)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked, $0.05)
- ½ cup minced onion ($0.22)
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20) ($7.95)
- ½ cup ketchup ($0.30)
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar ($0.03)
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce ($0.05)
- 1 tsp yellow mustard ($0.01)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, milk, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and minced onion. Mix well.
- Add the ground beef to the mixture and combine gently until everything is well mixed.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
how to serve Classic Homemade Meatloaf
Classic homemade meatloaf is best served warm. Slice it and plate it alongside your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle any remaining ketchup sauce over the slices for extra flavor!
how to store Classic Homemade Meatloaf
To store leftover meatloaf, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and freeze it in a freezer-safe container, where it’ll last for up to 3 months.
tips to make Classic Homemade Meatloaf
- Don’t overmix the meat when combining. This helps keep the meatloaf tender.
- You can use different types of meat, like ground turkey or pork, for variation.
- Adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, include some hot sauce in the topping mix.
variation
You can make a BBQ meatloaf by substituting the ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce. Another option is to add cheese into the meat mixture for a cheesy twist!
FAQs
1. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
2. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (70°C) in the center of the meatloaf.
3. Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?
Yes, cooked meatloaf freezes well. Just ensure it’s wrapped properly to prevent freezer burn.
Classic Homemade Meatloaf
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 large egg $0.18
- ⅓ cup milk $0.09
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce $0.02
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs $0.16
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning $0.10
- ½ tsp garlic powder $0.05
- 1 tsp salt $0.02
- ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked) $0.05
- ½ cup minced onion $0.22
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20) $7.95
Topping
- ½ cup ketchup $0.30
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar $0.03
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce $0.05
- 1 tsp yellow mustard $0.01
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, milk, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and minced onion. Mix well.
- Add the ground beef to the mixture and combine gently until everything is well mixed.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
