Delicious and Easy Meatloaf Recipe for Every Occasion
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by many for generations. However, not all meatloaf recipes are created equal. That’s why I would like to introduce you to Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe – a recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
This meatloaf combines the sweet and tangy flavors of brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce to give it the perfect balance. The crushed red pepper flakes give it just the right amount of kick without overpowering the dish. It’s prepared with lean ground beef, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
If you’re looking for a reliable meatloaf recipe that is easy to make and always delivers delicious results, look no further than Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you want to indulge in a mouthwatering, sweet and tangy meatloaf recipe, then the Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe is the perfect fit for you. This recipe will leave your taste buds tingling with delight and asking for more.
Firstly, this recipe encompasses an irresistible sweet and sour combination that is a perfect mix of brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic cloves, crushed red pepper flakes, and other exceptional ingredients. The blend creates an exquisitely savory sauce that forms a glaze on the juicy meatloaf.
Secondly, this recipe uses only 1 lb of lean ground beef to prepare a delicious tender and juicy meatloaf that oozes with flavor in each bite. The addition of one egg holds it all together and keeps it moist. The bread crumbs not only help with binding but also add texture to the meat mixture.
Thirdly, it is easy to customize this recipe by substituting various meats like ground turkey or pork for the ground beef. You can make it into a classic meatloaf or add your personal flair with different seasonings or cheeses to create variations of tangy meatloaf recipes.
Lastly, this recipe is effortless to prepare and budget-friendly compared to other recipes. Most ingredients are likely already stocked in your kitchen pantry. The steps are simple to follow and don’t require any fancy equipment or techniques.
In conclusion, Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe is delicious, straightforward, and customizable; every foodie’s dream come true. With its delectable glaze topping complemented by the tender juicy meat mixture, this homemade meatloaf guarantees taste bud satisfaction every time!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need for Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 egg
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors in the meatloaf. Make sure to use lean ground beef to keep the dish light and healthy. The egg and bread crumbs help to hold the meat mixture together while providing texture. The garlic adds a nice aromatic flavor to the dish while the Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami taste. Don’t go easy on the spices! The salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes add depth of flavor to the meat mixture. Finally, top it off with ketchup and brown sugar for extra sweetness and tanginess.
The Recipe How-To
Mix the Meat Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large mixing bowl, mix together 1 pound of lean ground beef and 1 egg until well combined. Then add 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients will provide the meatloaf with the perfect balance of sweet tangy flavors that will make your taste buds tingle with delight.
Next, add 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. These ingredients will help ensure that the meat mixture is well-seasoned and perfectly balanced in flavor.
Use your hands to gently mix all of the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in a tough and dry meatloaf.
Bake the Meatloaf
Pour the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape with your hands. Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This should result in a tender and juicy meatloaf that’s cooked to perfection.
While the meatloaf bakes, you can make the glaze from 1/4 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of mustard, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to create that sweet sour taste that glazes your delicious meatloaf right amount tangy sweet.
After about 45 minutes of baking time, top the meatloaf with the glaze and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes. The glaze will be sticky and bubbly, giving your meatloaf that beautiful tomato-glazed finish that we all know and love.
Once done, let it cool for five minutes before slicing into it. Slicing it too early may cause it to fall apart.
This recipe is easy to prepare and provides scrumptious results every time. I hope you enjoy this tasty dish!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the exciting things about cooking is the freedom to switch things up and make a recipe truly your own. In Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe, there are a few ingredients that can be substituted or adjusted to cater to personal preferences.
If you’re looking to make a healthier version of this meatloaf recipe, try using ground turkey in place of lean ground beef. This will significantly lower the amount of saturated fat in the dish and make it a little bit leaner. The meatloaf will still be juicy and flavorful, but with less guilt! You can also swap out breadcrumbs for rolled oats or crushed crackers to add some fiber and texture.
For an extra zingy flavor, consider adding some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil to the meat mixture. This will give your meatloaf an added depth of flavor that’s sure to impress. Alternatively, if you want a little bit more heat, try increasing the crushed red pepper flakes in the recipe. Just be careful not to go overboard, as you don’t want to overwhelm the sweet tangy taste of the dish!
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different types of glazes for your meatloaf. While Susan’s recipe calls for a traditional brown sugar ketchup glaze, you can mix things up by using honey mustard or a homemade BBQ sauce instead. There are endless possibilities when it comes to glazing meatloafs!
No matter which substitutions or variations you decide to try, remember that cooking is about having fun and being creative in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to take some risks and put your own spin on this delicious sweet tangy meatloaf recipe!
Serving and Pairing
The sweet and tangy flavor of Susan’s Meatloaf recipe makes it a versatile main dish that can be paired with a wide range of side dishes. Personally, I like to serve it with a heaping scoop of creamy mashed potatoes and a pile of tender green beans seasoned with garlic and butter. The contrast in textures and flavors is not only satisfying to the palate but also looks great on the plate.
If you are feeling more adventurous, you can try serving this meatloaf with some braised carrots or roasted Brussels sprouts. The sweetness and acidity of the sauce blend perfectly with the earthy notes of these vegetables, creating an exciting explosion of flavors in each bite.
When it comes to wine pairing, you’ll want to select a wine that matches the complexity of this meatloaf’s flavor profile. A medium-bodied red wine such as Merlot or Zinfandel will complement the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce while also accentuating the juicy texture of the meat.
For non-alcoholic beverages, I recommend a glass of iced tea or lemonade to cut through the richness of the meatloaf. Alternatively, if you prefer something fizzy, a cold can of cola or ginger ale will do just fine.
Overall, Susan’s sweet and tangy meatloaf is an excellent dish for family dinners or special gatherings. It’s hearty, comforting, and delightful in its simplicity – perfect for those moments when you want to impress your guests without sacrificing precious time in the kitchen.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you are hosting a big event or just simply want to prepare ahead of time, Susan’s sweet and tangy meatloaf recipe can be stored and reheated easily. The best way to make this ahead of time is to bake it fully, let cool completely, wrap tightly with plastic wrap twice, then wrap once more with foil. Label and store in the freezer for up to three months.
When it’s time to reheat, remove from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once it has thawed completely, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the foil and plastic wrap and place the meatloaf back into the baking dish. Heat uncovered for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until it is heated through.
Leftovers can also be stored in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat leftovers, first slice and place them in a microwave-safe dish with a lid. Add a tablespoon of water per slice and cover with the lid. Heat on high power for one minute per slice or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15 minutes.
Remember that reheating already cooked meatloaf too many times may cause it to dry out or lose its texture, so try not to do this too often. If you do have leftover meatloaf that you won’t be able to finish within four days, freeze it so you can enjoy it later without worrying about spoilage.
Overall, Susan’s sweet and tangy meatloaf is an excellent make-ahead meal that can be easily reheated without losing too much of its original flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Results
Achieving the perfect sweet and tangy meatloaf is not as elusive as you might think. In this section, I’ll share some tips to ensure your meatloaf comes out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Take a deep breath and let’s dive in!
Firstly, make sure to use lean ground beef instead of regular. This ensures that your meatloaf won’t end up too oily or greasy. Additionally, it will help your meatloaf hold its shape better during baking. It’s also important not to overmix your meat mixture as this can lead to a tough and dense loaf.
Next, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are an excellent choice if you want a lighter texture, while regular breadcrumbs will give you a denser consistency. You can also substitute the breadcrumbs for oats, crackers or even leftover rice – just make sure to soak them before adding them to the mixture.
Make sure to let your meatloaf rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out onto your cutting board. For a truly juicy meatloaf, try adding an extra egg to the recipe.
When it comes to seasoning your sweet and tangy meatloaf, feel free to play with different herbs and spices such as parsley, oregano or thyme. Remember that the crushed red pepper flakes pack quite a punch, so use them carefully if you’re not a fan of too much heat.
Finally, if you’re looking for an extra-special touch, try making a glaze for the top of your meatloaf using ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar – it adds a lovely sweetness and stickiness that just can’t be beaten.
Using these tips will help take your sweet and tangy meatloaf from good to truly great. Trust me – your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ
Now that you know everything there is to know about this delicious Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe, it’s time for some frequently asked questions. From ingredient substitutions to cooking methods, these FAQs will help you navigate any hurdles that come your way while making this dish. So, let’s dive into some of the most common concerns people have when cooking meatloaf.
What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
Throughout the cooking process, it’s essential to make sure there’s enough moisture to keep the dish flavorful and tender. Don’t skip on the wet seasonings such as eggs, ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire, or barbecue sauce. These ingredients not only enhance the taste and texture, but also guarantee that the meat is extra juicy. Keep in mind that moisture is key to a successful dish.
What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?
If you find that your meatloaf tends to fall into pieces, there could be a few reasons for this. One thing to check is whether you are using enough binding agents such as eggs and breadcrumbs in the meat mixture. Without these ingredients, the meatloaf won’t hold together properly while it’s cooking. By including enough of these binding agents, your meat mixture will be able to stick together and stay compact, resulting in a delicious and cohesive meatloaf.
Why do some people put milk in meatloaf?
When making meatloaf, adding milk helps to moisten the bread crumbs, which in turn provide necessary moisture to the meatloaf. However, if you prefer not to use milk, you can experiment with using alternate liquids such as low sodium beef or chicken stock, water, or even non-dairy milk substitutes.
What does ketchup do for meatloaf?
When it comes to making a mouth-watering meatloaf, ketchup is the unsung hero that brings all the flavors together. Whether you prefer to spread it over the top, mix it into the meat mixture, or serve it as a side sauce, ketchup’s unique combination of tanginess and sweetness perfectly complements the richness of the beef, making it an indispensable ingredient for a delicious meatloaf dish.
Bottom Line
So why not take a chance on this delicious Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf recipe? Give it a try and who knows, you may never go back to your old meatloaf recipe again! With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, juicy and tender meat mixture, and an easy-to-follow recipe, it won’t disappoint.
Plus, with its versatility in substitutions and variations, you can make it your own – try using ground turkey or adding some crushed pineapple to the mixture. And with the option of making it ahead of time and storing it for those busy weeknights, it’s a win-win situation.
So let’s ditch that classic meatloaf with its boring ketchup topping and embrace this flavorful Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf instead. Trust me – you won’t regret it.
Susan’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (I add more!)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (I just eyeball a few good sized dashes)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (can omit if you don't want a kick, we love it!)
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves (original recipes called for pineapple preserves but we prefer apricot)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, worcestershire, crushed red pepper, salt and pepper. Mix well and place into a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile. in a separate medium bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar and apricot preserves and pour over the meatloaf.
- Bake another 20 minutes.
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.