Growing up, I always looked forward to the weekends when my family would gather at my grandmother’s house. Among the many dishes she was known for, her meatloaf stood out. It was a recipe passed down through generations, becoming a staple at family gatherings. On one summer trip with friends, as we journeyed through the countryside, we came across a small diner. Their special of the day? Meatloaf. I ordered it, hoping to be reminded of home. To my surprise, it was incredibly similar to my grandmother’s recipe. That moment reaffirmed that recipes with meatloaf, especially the timeless classics, have a universal appeal.
Today, I’m sharing a meaty loaf recipe that mirrors the simplicity and deliciousness of those fond memories. Whether you’re cooking for family, neighbors, or friends, this easy meatloaf recipe will surely transport them to a time of cherished memories and delightful flavors.
How to Prepare Easy Meatloaf
Ingredients for Easy Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup bread crumbs (or crushed crackers as a substitute)
- Salt and pepper, as per taste
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
Directions for Easy Meatloaf
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F . Meanwhile, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, milk, bread crumbs, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix until well combined and then transfer this mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Pour this sauce over the meatloaf, ensuring it’s evenly spread across the top.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the center of the meatloaf is no longer pink.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Meatloaf
Can I use other types of meat for this meatloaf recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe primarily uses ground beef, you can experiment with a mixture of pork, turkey, or even lamb. Just ensure that the total weight remains the same.
What can I substitute for bread crumbs in the meatloaf?
If you don’t have bread crumbs on hand, crushed crackers are an excellent alternative. It offers a slightly different texture but is equally delicious.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to determine if the meatloaf is done is to insert an instant-read thermometer into its center. When the temperature reads 160 degrees F, it’s ready.
What are some good side dishes to pair with meatloaf?
Classics like mashed potatoes, roasted garlic carrots, and Italian peas complement the rich flavors of meatloaf perfectly.
How should I store leftover meatloaf?
Wrap your meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it can be refrigerated for up to three to four days. If you want to freeze it for later use, double wrap and store in a labeled zip-top bag.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the topping sauce?
Of course! Feel free to reduce the brown sugar or add a splash of vinegar to the sauce for a less sweet and tangier flavor profile.
How do I make the meatloaf moist?
Ensuring the right mix of ingredients, particularly the milk and bread crumbs, will result in a moist meatloaf. Additionally, avoid overmixing the meat as that can make it tough.
Can I add other seasonings to this recipe?
Yes, you can! Some popular additions include Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and even a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.
What if my meatloaf mixture seems too wet?
If the mixture is too wet, you can add more bread crumbs or even torn pieces of bread to absorb the excess moisture.
Crafting a perfect loaf meat recipe, like this easy meatloaf, is both an art and a trip down memory lane. It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience, a story, and most importantly, a cherished memory. Serve this at your next gathering and watch as smiles light up the room.
Easy Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup dried bread crumbs
- salt and pepper to taste
- 333/1000 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F . Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Combine ground beef, onion, milk, bread crumbs and egg in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Transfer into prepared loaf pan.
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard together in a small bowl until well combined; pour over meatloaf and spread it evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until no longer pink in the center, about 1 hour.
