Classic Homemade Meatloaf Recipe for Comfort

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we understand that comfort food is a cornerstone of home cooking, and few dishes embody warmth and satisfaction quite like an affordable meatloaf. This timeless classic has graced countless dinner tables across generations, offering a hearty and versatile meal that can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re craving a traditional beef meatloaf with a savory tomato glaze or experimenting with leaner options like turkey or plant-based proteins, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of preparing a delicious, budget-friendly meatloaf that will impress family and friends alike.

Time

Preparation time: approximately 20 minutes

Cooking time: approximately 50 minutes

Total time from start to finish: approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing bowls (preferably two for organization)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Grater (if incorporating fresh vegetables like carrots or zucchini)
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Loaf pan or baking dish (preferably 9×5 inches)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)
• Oven mitts
• Cooking thermometer (for checking internal temperature)
• Cooling rack (optional, for resting the meatloaf after baking)

Tags

• Comfort Food
• Budget-Friendly
• Family Dinner
• Homemade
• Meatloaf Recipe
• Easy Dinner
• Affordable Meals
• Meal Prep

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 generous slices, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Each serving provides a satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and fats, suitable for most dietary needs when paired with wholesome side dishes.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — requires basic cooking skills such as chopping, mixing, and baking. The process is straightforward, but attention to detail ensures a moist, flavorful meatloaf with the perfect internal temperature.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

• Omnivore
• Gluten-Free (with appropriate substitutions)
• Lactose-Free (if milk is substituted)
• Low Carb (by reducing binders)
• High Protein
• Vegetarian/Vegan (possible with plant-based proteins and binders)

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

American, Comfort Food

Ingredients

Meat and Protein Components

Binders and Fillers

Vegetables and Aromatics

Moisture and Flavor Enhancers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them accordingly. Finely chop the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and carrots if using. Measure out your breadcrumbs, eggs, and liquids. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Meat Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey). If you’re using a mixture of meats, add them all to the bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands (washed thoroughly) to gently combine the meats, avoiding overmixing, which can lead to a dense meatloaf. Incorporate the chopped onions, garlic, bell peppers, and grated carrots into the meat mixture, ensuring even distribution.

Step 3: Add the Binders and Flavorings

In a separate small bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the milk or broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup to the eggs, whisking together until combined. Pour this mixture into the meat mixture. Then, add the breadcrumbs or oats. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs such as thyme or parsley. Mix thoroughly but gently, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This step is crucial for achieving a moist, flavorful loaf with good binding.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Use your hands or a spatula to shape it into an even loaf, approximately 9 inches long and 4-5 inches wide. Press gently to ensure it holds together well. If you prefer, you can form individual smaller loaves for portion control. For an attractive presentation, give the top a slight dome or smooth surface, and make a shallow indentation down the center to prevent cracking during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef and 165°F (74°C) for poultry. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the loaf for accuracy. During baking, the top should develop a nice browned crust. If you prefer a glaze or topping, brush it on during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the slices tender and moist. Transfer the loaf to a cutting board if necessary and slice into portions. Serve hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes and sauce options.

Preparation Tips

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping the ground meat and other ingredients cold helps maintain a firm texture.
• Mix gently: Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatloaf. Combine ingredients just until evenly distributed.
• Customize seasonings: Adjust herbs, spices, and sauces to suit your taste preferences. Add a touch of smoky paprika or cayenne for heat.
• Moisture retention: Incorporate grated vegetables or a splash of broth to keep the meatloaf moist.
• Shape uniformly: For even cooking, shape the loaf with consistent thickness.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor with herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the taste profile.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensures meat is cooked through without overbaking.
• Layer flavors: Incorporate Worcestershire sauce, mustard, or hot sauce into the mixture for added complexity.
• Make ahead: Assemble the meatloaf a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
• Glaze options: Mix ketchup with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or brown sugar for a tangy-sweet topping.

Add-ons

• Cheese: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Vegetables: Incorporate chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini into the meat mixture.
• Spices: Experiment with cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder for a smoky or spicy twist.
• Breadcrumb coatings: Coat the loaf with crushed crackers or crispy onions for added texture.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
• Simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette
• Buttered corn on the cob

Improvements

• Use leaner meats or plant-based proteins for healthier options.
• Incorporate more vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.
• Adjust seasonings for different flavor profiles, such as Mediterranean or Mexican styles.
• Experiment with different binders like quinoa or ground nuts for texture variation.
• Switch up sauces and glazes for diverse tastes, from spicy sriracha to sweet honey mustard.

Save and Store

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave slices until heated through or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warm. For best results, reheat gently to avoid drying out the meatloaf.

FAQ

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the meatloaf a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve. This not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully.

What is the best type of meat to use?

Traditionally, ground beef is used, but mixing beef with pork or turkey adds flavor and moisture. Leaner meats are healthier but may require additional moisture or binders to prevent dryness.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef and 165°F (74°C) for poultry. The juices should run clear, and the top should be browned.

Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?

Yes, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.

What are some healthy substitutions?

Use ground turkey or chicken, replace breadcrumbs with oats, add extra vegetables, and reduce added salt. Opt for low-sodium sauces and herbs for flavor without excess sodium.

Conclusion

This affordable meatloaf recipe, shared by Love With Recipes, combines simplicity, flavor, and versatility to create a dish that satisfies both your palate and your budget. With the right ingredients, attentive preparation, and a few creative tweaks, you can craft a comforting meal that becomes a family favorite. Remember, the key to a perfect meatloaf lies in not overmixing the ingredients, ensuring proper internal cooking temperature, and resting the loaf before slicing. Enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results that bring warmth and nourishment to your home.

References

• “The History of Meatloaf.” FoodHistory.com.
• “Meatloaf Nutrition Facts.” USDA FoodData Central.