Delicious and Easy Meatloaf Recipe for a Comforting Meal
Welcome, my fellow meat lovers! Today I want to share a recipe that will have you salivating at the mere thought of it. It’s time to shake things up in the kitchen and add some pizzazz to our everyday meals. Have you guessed what we’re making? That’s right, we’re diving into the world of meatloaf!
Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “Meatloaf? That’s so boring.” But let me tell you, this is not your grandma’s meatloaf recipe. We’re talking about an Everyday Meatloaf recipe that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also make your mouth water with each bite.
So why should you give this meatloaf recipe a chance? Well, not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly delicious. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen cooking a meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough that you can switch things up by adding your own variations.
Trust me; once you try this Everyday Meatloaf recipe, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation. Let’s get started on this savory adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why this Everyday Meatloaf Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s not just any meatloaf recipe, it’s the best meatloaf recipe out there – trust me!
Firstly, it’s easy to make with ingredients that you probably already have on hand. No need to make a run to the grocery store for any fancy or hard-to-find items.
Secondly, the combination of seasonings used in this recipe elevates the flavor profile to the next level. The dry mustard, ground nutmeg, sage, and brown sugar add a depth of sweet and savory notes that will leave your taste buds happy.
Thirdly, it’s versatile! You can enjoy this Everyday Meatloaf Recipe as is or switch it up with some of the variations suggested later in the article. Plus, it pairs well with an array of sides from mashed potatoes to green beans.
Lastly, this Everyday Meatloaf Recipe is a classic – tried and true. It’s been around for a long time and has graced the tables of families for generations. That’s because it’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and budget-friendly – what more could you want in a recipe?
So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and see why it’s earned its place as an essential in every home cook’s repertoire.
Ingredient List
Here are the essential ingredients you need to prepare the Everyday Meatloaf recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup milk
- 2 slices bread – any kind
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, diced (or â…“ cup finely chopped onion)
- 2/3 cup breadcrumbs (plain bread crumbs or Italian-style breadcrumbs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional Ingredients:
- Bacon (for topping)
- Catsup or tomato sauce (for topping and/or flavoring)
- Brown sugar (for topping and/or flavoring)
- Soup mix (like Lipton onion soup mix, for flavoring)
- Milk (to moisten meat mixture, if needed)
You can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you have some of the optional ingredients on hand, feel free to add them to enhance the flavor of your meatloaf.
The Recipe How-To
Now, the fun part begins- let me guide you with the step-by-step process on how to make Everyday Meatloaf Recipe.
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F or 175 degrees C.
- Grease your loaf pan using butter, margarine, or baking spray.
- Measure and prepare all of your ingredients.
Mix and Form
- Get a large bowl and mix the breadcrumbs and milk together.
- Add in the meat, eggs, onion, and other desired seasonings into the same bowl then mix well.
- Divide the meat mixture into two equal parts and form each one into a loaf.
- Place both loaves in a greased loaf pan.
Add Topping
- In another bowl, combine catsup, brown sugar, and other desired seasonings like dry mustard, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Apply half of this mixture on top of each meatloaf.
Bake
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about an hour or until it’s fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove them from the oven and let it rest for at least five minutes before serving.
That’s our recipe! Enjoy your flavorful and savory Everyday Meatloaf Recipe cooked with passion from your own kitchen!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch up this classic everyday meatloaf recipe. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
– If you’re looking for a low FODMAP option, try swapping out the onions for scallions or leeks. You can also experiment with different seasonings such as oregano or thyme.
– For an Italian twist, use Italian seasoning in place of the sage and add 1 cup of tomato sauce to the mix. You could even use a vintage recipe from your Nonna (grandmother) and incorporate garlic and basil into the mixture.
– To make this meatloaf healthier, you can try replacing some of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also swap out some of the bread crumbs for cooked quinoa or oatmeal.
– If you want to add more flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon bits or using a different type of cheese such as Parmesan or shredded cheddar.
– Another fun variation is to form individual loaves by using greased muffin pans instead of one large loaf pan. This is great for portion control and makes for an easy grab-and-go meal.
Remember, when making substitutions or variations, don’t forget to adjust cooking times accordingly and always make sure your meatloaf is cooked thoroughly before serving. Happy experimenting!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving my everyday meatloaf recipe, I like to make it a complete meal, and I often pair it with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. However, because the meatloaf is so versatile, you can pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, macaroni and cheese, or a side salad.
To add an extra touch of flavor to the meatloaf, you can top it with a glaze made from catsup, brown sugar, and ground mustard. This sweet and tangy glaze adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors in the meatloaf.
When serving a large crowd, I like to form the mixture into individual loaves using greased muffin pans before baking. This not only makes them more visually appealing but also helps with portion control.
If you happen to have any leftovers, don’t worry! You can enjoy them later by making meatloaf sandwiches or simply reheating them for another meal. The meatloaf can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to six months in the freezer.
Overall, this dish is perfect for those seeking comfort food that’s easy to make but still delicious.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
After making this everyday meatloaf recipe, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Not to worry! This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can easily be stored and reheated as desired.
To make ahead: You can prepare the entire loaf ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can double the ingredients and make two meatloaves instead of one, freezing one for later use.
To store: Wrap any leftover meatloaf tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or transfer it to an airtight container. The leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated for up to three days.
To reheat: Before reheating, allow the meatloaf come to room temperature. This will help to ensure that it heats evenly throughout. If reheating a full loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the loaf on a baking sheet covered with aluminum foil. Reheat the meatloaf for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you could cut the meatloaf into slices and fry them in a skillet until crisped up again.
These tips will help you to enjoy your delicious everyday meatloaf recipe not just once but multiple times without the hassle of cooking from scratch again!
Tips for Perfect Results
As an experienced cook, I have learned a few tricks over the years that can help you make the best everyday meatloaf recipe ever. It’s all about mastering the right techniques and ingredients to elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned veteran, follow these useful tips for perfect results.
First and foremost, always use quality ingredients. Choose fresh ground beef with a fat content of at least 15-20% for the juiciest meatloaf. Use fresh herbs and spices, like sage, dry mustard, nutmeg and brown sugar, to add depth of flavor to your meat mixture. A good quality ketchup will also make a huge difference in the taste of your finished loaf.
Another essential tip is to soak your breadcrumbs in milk before mixing them into your meat mixture. This will allow them to absorb moisture and ensure a tender and moist meatloaf. For an even fluffier texture, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
When it comes to seasoning your meatloaf, remember that less is more. Don’t over-season with salt and pepper, let the natural flavor of the beef shine through. Instead, try adding different herbs and spices that complement each other without overpowering the dish. Sage, nutmeg, dry mustard and brown sugar are classic seasonings that work great in this recipe.
Forming your individual loaves can be daunting at first but it’s actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. Use muffin pans for smaller portions or shape them with your hands and place them on a greased baking sheet. Remember to pack each loaf tightly but don’t overwork the meat as this can toughen it up.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions for a unique meatloaf experience. Try adding bacon or oatmeal for an extra crunch or swapping out tomato sauce for Italian seasoning for a more authentic flavor profile. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to impress friends and family with a delicious and moist everyday meatloaf that will keep them coming back for more!
FAQ
As you prepare to make this everyday meatloaf, you may have some questions about the recipe. In this section, I have compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this recipe to help you achieve perfect results. So let’s dive in and get started!
What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
When crafting meat dishes, it’s important to keep a few key ingredients in mind that will add moisture and enhance the overall flavor. Eggs, ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce all serve as excellent examples of wet seasonings that can do just this. While they may seem inconsequential or purely for taste, they actually play an important role in ensuring that the meat remains juicy and succulent throughout the cooking process. Don’t overlook the value of these fundamental ingredients!
What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?
One of the common issues that can lead to a crumbly meatloaf is the lack of sufficient binding agents such as eggs and breadcrumbs. These components play a crucial role in keeping the meat mixture intact during the cooking process by providing the necessary cohesion. So, it is vital to have them in the right proportions.
How do you make Paula Deen’s meatloaf?
Let’s get started by turning up the heat! Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a large bowl, I recommend stirring together the ground beef with a generous amount of salt and pepper. Then, add in chopped onions and bell peppers for some added flavor and texture. To bind it all together, crack an egg and mix it in. As a little secret ingredient, I like to add in some diced tomatoes and oats for some moisture and nutrition.
Next up, let’s make the topping. For that sweet and tangy kick, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the mixture on top of the meatloaf, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Now, pop the meatloaf in the oven and let it bake for 1 hour. Trust me, the aroma of the beef and veggies mingling with the sweet and tangy topping will have your taste buds watering.
Why do some people put milk in meatloaf?
When preparing a meatloaf, it’s common to add milk to the mixture. The milk serves a key purpose by softening and moistening the bread crumbs that are commonly used as a binding agent. However, if you prefer not to use milk, fret not! There are a handful of alternative options you can use instead, such as low sodium beef stock, chicken stock, water, or a non-dairy milk substitute.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this everyday meatloaf recipe is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is simple to make and always delicious. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, you will find this recipe easy to follow and satisfyingly savory. With the right ingredients and careful preparation, you can create a mouth-watering meatloaf that will become a family favorite.
So, what are you waiting for? Try out this recipe today and see why it has been a go-to meal for generations of home cooks. The blend of seasonings like sage, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and dry mustard come together with rich catsup sauce and brown sugar to create a depth of flavor that will delight your taste buds.
This meatloaf also provides a lot of versatility when it comes to variations and substitutions. You can add bacon or oatmeal for more texture, or even experiment with low FODMAP or Italian-style versions. And don’t forget about the benefits of making individual loaves in greased muffin pans!
Overall, this everyday meatloaf recipe is one that should be in every cook’s arsenal. It is timeless, comforting, and full of flavor that everyone will enjoy. So why not make it tonight? Nothing beats the satisfaction of cooking up a warm and hearty homemade meal that brings a family together. Happy Cooking!
Everyday Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup dry breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 lbs ground chuck
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/3 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup catsup
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
Instructions
- Soak bread crumbs in milk.
- Add beaten eggs, seasonings, onion (process in food processor to puree for picky eaters).
- Mix together well.
- With hands, gently add ground chuck and mix together lightly.
- Place in loaf pan sprayed with PAM.
- Bake in 350º oven 45-50 minutes.
- Prepare topping in small bowl.
- Pour over meat loaf during last 15 minutes of baking time.
- *The more you handle the ground beef during the making of meat loaf the tougher it becomes.
- **Edited - For different texture and taste sautee onion in a bit (1 Tablespoon +/-) of butter. Add 1/2 cup grated carrots (sautee with the onions) for a little extra punch of color and flavor.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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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.