Grandma’s Moist and Tangy Meatloaf Recipe: A Family Favorite
When you’re in the mood for a comforting, classic meal that pleases everyone around the table, Grandma’s Meatloaf is sure to be a hit. This recipe, passed down from a beloved former co-worker, has quickly become a favorite in my household, especially with my husband who can’t get enough of the flavorful, moist texture. It’s not just about satisfying your craving for hearty meatloaf; it’s also a sneaky way to sneak some extra veggies into your children’s diet without them even noticing. The tangy sauce topping adds a burst of flavor that really ties everything together, making this a dish you’ll want to add to your regular dinner rotation. Whether you’re preparing this for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, Grandma’s Meatloaf will never disappoint!
Grandma’s Meatloaf Recipe: Moist, Flavorful, and Full of Surprises
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground hamburger | 2 to 2 ½ pounds |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Carrot (finely grated) | 1 medium |
| Green bell pepper (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Sugar | ½ tablespoon |
| Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion (for the sauce, finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Ketchup (or catsup) | 1 ½ cups |
| Water | ½ cup |
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 405.4 |
| Total Fat | 21.1 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 8.6 grams |
| Cholesterol | 144.7 mg |
| Sodium | 852.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18.3 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 10.3 grams |
| Protein | 34.4 grams |
Prep and Cook Times
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for a perfectly cooked meatloaf.
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Prepare the Bread: Toast some bread slices (about 2-3 slices should suffice) and cut them into cubes. Soak these cubes in the milk for a few minutes until they soften and absorb the liquid. This will keep your meatloaf moist and tender.
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Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground hamburger, egg, salt, pepper, finely chopped onion, grated carrot, and chopped green pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
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Add the Soaked Bread: Add the bread cubes soaked in milk to the meat mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to lightly mix it into the meat mixture. Be careful not to overwork the meat; just fold everything together gently so the bread pieces are evenly incorporated.
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Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan. Press the mixture gently into the pan to form an even loaf. It should hold its shape but not be packed too tightly, as this helps the meatloaf stay moist and tender during baking.
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Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf reads 160°F (71°C). This ensures the meatloaf is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat while remaining juicy.
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Prepare the Tangy Sauce: While the meatloaf is baking, make the sauce that will add that signature tangy flavor. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, sugar, and vinegar, then bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and all the flavors meld together.
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Serve the Meatloaf: Once the meatloaf has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute within the meatloaf, making it even more flavorful. Carefully drain any excess fat from the loaf pan.
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Slice and Top with Sauce: Slice the meatloaf into serving-sized pieces. Place the slices on a serving plate and pour the prepared sauce over the top. Make sure to get the sauce in between the slices to infuse every bite with flavor.
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Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This step helps the sauce soak in and gives the meatloaf time to cool slightly, making it easier to slice and enjoy. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a firmer meatloaf, feel free to reduce the amount of milk or bread. On the other hand, for an even moister texture, you can add a bit more milk.
- Veggie Hacks: For extra nutritional value, you can sneak in even more finely grated veggies like zucchini or spinach without changing the flavor too much.
- Freezing: This meatloaf freezes well! Simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal later on.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Tangy: The blend of soaked bread, milk, and the rich sauce ensures that every bite is moist and bursting with flavor.
- Sneaky Veggies: Even picky eaters will love this meatloaf, thanks to the finely grated vegetables that blend in seamlessly while providing a nutritious boost.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this dish. It’s made from things you probably already have in your pantry, making it perfect for last-minute dinners or meal prep.
- Family-Approved: This recipe has been tested and loved by my family, and I’m sure it will become a staple in yours too. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your immediate family, this meatloaf is the definition of comfort food.
Perfect Pairings for Grandma’s Meatloaf
This meatloaf goes wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for the perfect meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. You can even top them with extra gravy for an added touch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a healthy and flavorful addition.
- Mac and Cheese: If you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser alongside meatloaf.
Grandma’s Meatloaf: A Recipe to Remember
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests, Grandma’s Meatloaf is a recipe that brings warmth, satisfaction, and a little touch of nostalgia to your table. It’s a hearty, savory dish that never goes out of style, and its versatility allows it to be served at any time of year. With its tender texture, tangy sauce, and a healthy dose of veggies, this meatloaf is not just a family favorite – it’s a tradition in the making. Give it a try today and see why it’s become my go-to recipe for comfort food.
Happy Cooking!
