Old Fashioned Meatloaf: A Classic Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Old Fashioned Meatloaf is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This hearty dish has been a staple in American households for generations, often associated with family gatherings and home-cooked meals. The rich aroma of meatloaf baking in the oven evokes memories of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, making it a beloved recipe for many.

What I adore about Old Fashioned Meatloaf is its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a medley of seasonings creates a savory experience that is both satisfying and delicious. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also convenient—easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers. Whether served with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans, this dish never fails to please. Join me as we dive into the delightful world of Old Fashioned Meatloaf, where nostalgia meets culinary satisfaction!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain or Italian)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step to ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and breadcrumbs. I like to use my hands for this part, as it helps to mix everything thoroughly without overworking the meat.
3. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the bowl. The onion adds moisture and flavor, while the garlic gives it that extra kick.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. This mixture will help bind the meatloaf and add moisture.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the meat mixture. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. These seasonings are key to giving your meatloaf that classic flavor.
6. Using your hands, gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shaping the Meatloaf

7. Once the mixture is well combined, transfer it to a baking dish or a lined loaf pan. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf, about 2 inches high. Make sure to smooth the top and sides for even cooking.
9. Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful glaze as it bakes.

Baking the Meatloaf

10. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when it’s done. I recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
11. About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, check on it. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
12. Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier slice.

Slicing and Serving

13. After resting, carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it into thick pieces, about 1 inch wide. This thickness helps maintain the juiciness of each slice.
14. Serve the meatloaf warm, with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad pair wonderfully with this classic dish.
15. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Meatloaf also freezes well, so feel free to wrap individual slices and store them for a quick meal later on.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or chopped bell peppers into the meat mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños.
• Experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or pork, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it’s crucial for a moist meatloaf.

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the world of Old Fashioned Meatloaf, I can’t stress enough why this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to bring a touch of nostalgia and comfort to their dinner table. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a sweet tangy glaze creates a flavor profile that is both satisfying and heartwarming. It’s not just a meal; it’s a slice of home, a reminder of family gatherings, and a dish that brings everyone together. When it comes to serving suggestions, the possibilities are endless! Pair your meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic dinner, or serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthier twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of cheese in the middle for a gooey surprise or swapping out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative to cater to different dietary preferences. You can even slice the leftovers and make a delicious meatloaf sandwich the next day—trust me, it’s a game changer! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Old Fashioned Meatloaf recipe a try. I promise it will not only satisfy your taste buds but also create lasting memories around the dinner table. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or any special touches you added to make it your own. Let’s keep the tradition alive and celebrate the joy of cooking together! Print

Old Fashioned Meatloaf: A Classic Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
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• Author: Dottie
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
Print Recipe
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Description
This classic meatloaf features a savory blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, topped with a tangy ketchup glaze. It’s a comforting family favorite that’s easy to customize with your preferred ingredients, making it perfect for any dinner table.
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Ingredients
Scale 1x2x3x
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain or Italian)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
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Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and breadcrumbs. Use your hands to mix thoroughly without overworking the meat.
3. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the bowl.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the meat mixture. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Gently mix until just combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or lined loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, about 2 inches high, smoothing the top and sides.
7. Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
8. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
9. About 10 minutes before it’s done, check the meatloaf. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
10. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
11. Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice into thick pieces. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
• For added flavor, consider mixing in grated cheese or chopped bell peppers.
• For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
• Experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or pork.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it’s crucial for a moist meatloaf.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes