Eva Bond’s Famous Meatloaf Recipe: A True Comfort Classic
Eva Bond’s meatloaf gained legendary status for good reason: it’s a dish that delivers unbeatable flavor and comfort in every bite. This recipe, famously served to the jurors during the Malice Green murder trial in Detroit in 1993, became a favorite meal they requested repeatedly. The secret lies in its classic ingredients, meticulous steps, and a finishing touch of savory sauce baked into the loaf.
This is not just any meatloaf—it’s an experience. Be sure to follow the recipe closely, as each step contributes to the overall magic. Using ground beef is essential for capturing the authentic taste, and the final step of slicing, saucing, and baking again ensures that each bite is infused with rich, flavorful goodness. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
Meatloaf Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 2 ½ pounds |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Onion, finely chopped | ½ cup |
| Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Green bell pepper, diced | ½ cup |
| Water | ½ cup |
Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ketchup | ½ cup |
| Water | ⅓ cup |
| Brown sugar | 4 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 372 |
| Fat | 22.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 149.3 mg |
| Sodium | 322.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12.6 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 11.5 g |
| Protein | 28.4 g |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you are.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a baking dish large enough to hold the meatloaf with non-stick cooking spray. Leave extra space around the loaf for proper oil drainage.
Assembling the Meatloaf
- Mix the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, black pepper, eggs, onion, ketchup, green bell pepper, and water. Mix thoroughly, but avoid overworking the mixture to keep it tender.
- Shape the Loaf: Mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared baking dish. Ensure there’s space between the loaf and the dish sides for draining excess grease.
- Moistening for Perfection: Using a pastry brush or your hands, lightly moisten the top and sides of the meatloaf with cold water. This step helps prevent crumbling during baking.
First Bake
- Bake Uncovered: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Sauce and Slicing
- Drain and Slice: After baking, carefully drain any liquid from the pan. Slice the meatloaf directly in the pan, leaving the slices upright for sauce absorption.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, water, and brown sugar until fully combined.
Final Touch
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce generously over the meatloaf slices. Ensure the sauce seeps between the slices and coats the top for maximum flavor.
- Bake Again: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
Notes & Tips
- Seasoning Alternative: If you don’t have Lawry’s meatloaf seasoning, substitute it with another commercial brand or a homemade blend. For a comparable texture, consider adding 3-4 tablespoons of fine breadcrumbs if your substitute lacks a flour-based filler.
- Extra Sauce Option: Doubling the sauce recipe is a great idea if you love a saucier meatloaf. You can serve the additional sauce warmed on the side for extra indulgence.
This meatloaf is a perfect main course for family dinners or gatherings, pairing beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans. The second bake with sauce ensures a moist, flavorful meatloaf that leaves everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the timeless comfort of Eva Bond’s meatloaf and make it your family’s new favorite tradition!
