Classic Meatloaf Recipe: A Comfort Food Favorite

Discover the joy of cooking with this easy meatloaf recipe, a classic comfort food that is quick to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone at your dinner table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meatloaf ready in no time!

Ingredients for a Perfect Homemade Meatloaf

Key Ingredients

To create a delicious homemade meatloaf, gather the following essential ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:

  • Ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup of milk
  • 1 cup of bread crumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Topping Sauce:
  • ½ cup of ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of mustard

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Meatloaf

Preparing the Mixture

Making meatloaf from scratch is an enjoyable process. Here’s a quick overview of the steps involved:

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, chopped onion, milk, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
2. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan, forming it into a loaf shape.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Pour this mixture over the meatloaf.
4. Bake: Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 1 hour, or until fully cooked.

Cooking Time and Temperature

• Cooking Duration: Typically, the meatloaf will need approximately 60 minutes to cook thoroughly.
• Internal Temperature: To ensure safety, the meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Using an instant-read thermometer is the best method to check this.

Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Meatloaf

Serving Suggestions

Looking for great side dish ideas to accompany your meatloaf? Check out this selection of delicious options:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that complements the flavors of meatloaf perfectly.
• Italian Peas: Adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your meal.
• Roasted Parmesan-Garlic Carrots: These carrots bring a flavorful crunch that balances the meatloaf’s textures.

Storing and Freezing Meatloaf

Best Practices for Storage

To prolong the shelf life of your meatloaf, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can last 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, wrap the meatloaf in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. For additional protection, place it in a zip-top freezer bag and label with the date. It can be frozen for 3 to 4 months without losing flavor.

Community Feedback and Tips

What Our Community Says

The meatloaf recipe has received fantastic feedback from home cooks! Here’s what some of them had to say:

• "I love making mini loaves; they cook faster and freeze perfectly for quick meals!" – Alethea Taylor
• "This recipe was so easy! I added green peppers and used honey BBQ sauce instead of ketchup. It turned out amazing!" – Simpson
• "A great recipe with simple instructions. It yielded a flavorful and satisfying meatloaf!" – Another satisfied cook.

Try this classic meatloaf recipe today and enjoy the heartwarming flavors that make it a beloved dish for families everywhere. With these detailed instructions and helpful tips, you’re sure to impress at your next dinner!