Mouth-watering Meatloaf Recipe: Easy & Delicious!
There are few things more comforting than a savory and satisfying meatloaf. And when it comes to classic American meatloaf recipes, Bob Evans’s original stands the test of time. But what if you could recreate that same delicious taste in the comfort of your own home? That’s where my Bob-Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe comes in.
As a culinary explorer, I’ve always been fascinated by iconic recipes and how they become so beloved. When I first tried the Bob Evans Original Meatloaf, I was hooked. The combination of sausage and hamburger, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup created a juicy and tender meatloaf that was both easy to make and packed with flavor.
But as much as I loved the original recipe, I also knew that there was room for some tweaks and experimentation. Through trial and error, I developed this copycat meatloaf recipe that takes inspiration from the original but adds some extra flair to make it even more delicious.
With my Bob-Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe, you can enjoy all of the classic flavors of the original dish, but with a homemade twist. It’s perfect for family dinners, weekend meals or just when you’re craving something hearty and comforting.
In this article, I’ll be sharing my step-by-step guide to making this delicious recipe in your own kitchen. So let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As a culinary explorer, I’ve come across many meatloaf recipes before. But this Bob Evans-ish meatloaf recipe stands out for several reasons.
Firstly, it uses a combination of sausage and hamburger to create the ultimate tender meatloaf. This blend brings out the savory flavors in the meat and adds a perfect balance of texture to the recipe. Secondly, the addition of Worcestershire Sauce and brown sugar intensifies its flavor, creating a delectable burst of taste in every bite.
But what sets this recipe apart is its combination of ketchup, barbecue sauce, and onion that give it a unique tangy twist. You will love how these ingredients combine to give your taste buds an explosion of flavors that evoke memories of family BBQs and enjoyments in life.
What’s more, this recipe is highly versatile as you can make mini meatloaves for individual servings or a large one to share. And if you are watching your calories or avoiding carbs, substituting bread crumbs with some almond flour will do the trick.
In summary, whether you are looking for a comforting homemade meal to serve on weekdays or big events like Father’s Day or Thanksgiving; this Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf Recipe is sure to win your heart with its timeless charm and incredible taste that will leave friends and family asking for more.
Ingredient List
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb roll sausage (Bob Evans original recipe preferred)
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional Ingredients:
- Diced green onions or parsley for garnish purposes.
All of these ingredients are essentials to making a tender meatloaf similar to what Bob Evans offers!
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of creating a Bob Evans-ish meatloaf recipe. This recipe is easy and extremely delicious, which makes it perfect for homemade weeknight dinners or special occasions. So, tie on your aprons, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, gather round the ingredients listed below, and let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs ground hamburger meat
- 1 lb sausage roll
- 1 pkg (4 cup) Bob Evans Original Mashed Potatoes
- 2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced green pepper
- 1 pkg (6 oz.) bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sausage roll, finely diced onion, finely diced green pepper, bread crumbs, eggs and spices (salt and pepper).
- Mix all the ingredients together with your hands until they are thoroughly combined.
- Spread half of the ketchup on top of the meatloaf mixture to give it that iconic tangy taste.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar.
- Pour this mixture over the top of the meatloaf. Make sure to spread it evenly across the surface area, so that every bite is perfectly coated with this delightful sauce.
- Place the meatloaf in a greased loaf pan or slow cooker for added convenience.
- Bake in the oven for 45 minutes to an hour or until fully cooked through (165 degrees Fahrenheit internal temperature).
- Allow the meatloaf to cool down for several minutes before slicing it into individual servings with a carving knife.
Now that you have all these steps to guide you through making this savory dish, go ahead and impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary expertise!
Substitutions and Variations
Trying out new flavors is always exciting for me, and luckily, this Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf Recipe offers a lot of room for creativity. If you’re looking to switch things up, there are a few substitutions and variations that you can choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:
– Spice it up: If you’re a fan of spicy food, try adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also use spicy sausage instead of regular sausage to give the meatloaf some heat.
– Add some veggies: To make this dish even more nutritious, try adding some finely chopped veggies like carrots, zucchini or bell peppers to the meat mixture. Not only will it add flavor and texture, but it will also provide a healthy serving of vegetables.
– Change the sauce: While the ketchup-brown sugar-barbecue sauce combination is heavenly, you can also switch it up by using different sauces. Try using buffalo sauce or hot sauce for a spicy twist, or teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired taste.
– Make mini meatloafs: Instead of making one large meatloaf, try making mini ones! Not only do they look adorable, but they also cook faster and allow everyone to have their own!
– Stuff it: For a unique twist on traditional meatloaf, try stuffing it! You can stuff with anything from sautéed mushrooms and cheese to spinach and artichoke dip.
These substitutions and variations are just the beginning; feel free to get creative with your cooking! Think outside the box and come up with new ways to make this recipe work for you. With so many possibilities, expect that every bite will be a wonderful surprise.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have successfully cooked the Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe, it’s time to think about how you’re going to serve and pair your delicious meal. There are plenty of options depending on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
Firstly, for a classic serving experience, you can slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and place them on a plate alongside some original mashed potatoes, one of the signature sides from Bob Evans restaurant. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes will complement the tender meatloaf perfectly.
If you want to give the meal a little kick, you may also consider drizzling some barbecue sauce or ketchup over the sliced meatloaf. The sweet tanginess of barbecue sauce will balance well with the savory flavor of the meatloaf.
For a healthier pairing option, serve the meatloaf with some grilled chicken breast or steamed vegetables such as broccoli and carrots. You can season your veggies with garlic powder, salt and pepper or any other preferred seasoning.
Another fancy way to enjoy Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf is by stuffing it with cheese or making it into sloppy joes. Serve it in a sandwich or burger bun topped with ketchup, mayo, pickles or any salad toppings of your liking.
To complete this meal experience try adding macaroni and cheese as a side dish which complemented each other very well. You could prepare homemade macaroni and cheese with just enough creaminess to make it the perfect accompaniment to Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe.
If you are planning to host a large gathering or event, consider pairing your dish with wines such as merlot, zinfandel, shiraz or cabernet sauvignon. These wine notes tend to enhance the flavors of beef and sausage dishes like this meatloaf recipe.
Overall, Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe serves as an excellent main course regardless of whether you want to keep it simple or indulge in something gourmet.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to meal prep, this Bob Evans-ish meatloaf recipe is a game-changer. It can be made-ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for those hectic weeknights when you need a delicious family dinner on the table fast.
To make-ahead, simply follow the recipe as normal and let the meatloaf cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store the meatloaf in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.
If you decide to freeze your meatloaf, make sure that it is completely thawed before reheating. To reheat, place the thawed meatloaf in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can also reheat individual slices of meatloaf in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
When it comes to storing leftovers, cooked meatloaf can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to place any leftover slices in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Note that reheating leftovers may slightly alter its texture but will still taste amazing.
Whether you’re prepping ahead for busy family dinners or have leftovers from a weekend feast, this Bob Evan-ish meatloaf recipe will store and reheat perfectly without losing its tender and juicy texture.
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want to make Bob Evans-ish meatloaf that is tender, moist and packed with flavor, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow to get it right.
First, don’t overwork the meat. Too much mixing and squeezing can make the meatloaf tough and dry. Combine the ingredients gently and briefly until they are just evenly distributed.
In addition, use a mixture of hamburger and sausage for added richness and flavor. The sausage also helps keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
Another tip is to let the meatloaf rest before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy.
Also, if you’re using a slow cooker, make sure you use a liner for easy cleanup. A liner will also prevent the sides from sticking too much and help to ensure even cooking.
Lastly, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a fresher taste. Fresh parsley or basil will add just the right amount of brightness to your dish.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have perfect results every time with this Bob Evans-ish meatloaf recipe.
FAQ
Before we wrap up this recipe, let’s take a moment to explore some frequently asked questions that may arise. These tips and tricks will help you navigate any potential hurdles and tackle any obstacles that you may encounter along the way. So, let’s dive in!
What is the secret to tender meatloaf?
When making meatloaf, it’s best to choose cuts of meat with a higher fat content. Lean meats tend to produce dry and tough meatloafs. For instance, if you’re making an all-beef meatloaf, it’s recommended to use meat with at least 15 percent fat. However, if your chosen beef or turkey is on the leaner side, mixing in some ground pork and/or veal can help attain a juicy and tender meatloaf.
How do you make Paula Deen’s meatloaf?
Let’s get started on making a mouth-watering meatloaf that will leave everyone at the dinner table satisfied. To begin, set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready to go.
Grab a large mixing bowl and mix together some juicy ground beef, savory salt and pepper, zesty onion and bell pepper, a beaten egg, diced tomatoes, and some hearty oats that will give the meatloaf a nice texture.
Now it’s time to whip up the perfect topping to complement the flavors of the meatloaf. In another bowl, blend together some tangy ketchup, sweet brown sugar, and spicy mustard. This combination will create a delectable sauce that will make the meatloaf shine.
Pop the meatloaf in the oven and let it cook for a full hour. The aromas that will fill your kitchen as the meatloaf bakes will be absolutely tantalizing. Once the baking time is up, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. A slice of this meatloaf paired with some creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Why do some people put milk in meatloaf?
Adding milk to meatloaf helps to keep it moist by blending with the breadcrumbs. However, if you prefer to skip the milk, there are other options such as low sodium beef or chicken stock, water, or a non-dairy milk substitute that can also add the required moisture.
How does Martha Stewart make meatloaf?
Let’s fire up the oven to 375 degrees to get it ready for our culinary adventure. I suggest we begin by grabbing some bread and finely grinding it into crumbs using a food processor. Once done, let’s take some garlic, onion, celery, carrot, and parsley, and finely chop them in the same processor. We can then mix them with the breadcrumbs to create a flavorful base for our dish.
To add another layer of tastiness, we should get some ketchup and brown sugar and mix them well. Once smooth, we can brush this delicious blend onto the meat which will elevate its flavors to new heights.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe is a must-try for everyone who loves juicy and flavorful meatloaf. The combination of sausage and hamburger, along with other flavorful ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder, make this recipe stand out from other traditional meatloaf recipes.
Whether you decide to cook it in the oven or in a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special occasion with friends. Not only is this recipe easy-to-follow, but it is also versatile and can be modified to fit your individual tastes and preferences with different variations suggested in the article.
With its tender texture and satisfying taste, this Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe will surely become a household favorite, leaving everyone asking for more. Try pairing it with mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese, or even stuffed into a sandwich for a twist on classic sloppy joes.
So what are you waiting for? Give this Bob Evans-ish Meatloaf recipe a try and see why it’s so beloved by many. You won’t be disappointed!
Bob Evans-Ish Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs hamburger
- 3/4 lb sausage
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup onion
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/8 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, sausage, eggs, and onions well.
- Using a separate bowl, mix the ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder with a whisk.
- Combine most (but not all!) of the liquid mixture with the meat mixture and mix well.
- Using a large cutting board or other surface, knead the meat to get as much air out as possible.
- After meat is well kneaded (gently!) place into a greased bread pan.
- Using a rubber spatula, spread the rest of the liquid mixture on top of the meatloaf.
- Bake at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-1/2 hours or until 175 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit internal temperature.
Your Own Notes
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.