There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of old-fashioned meatloaf, especially when it’s made following a cherished family recipe. This meatloaf brings back memories of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of this hearty dish would fill the kitchen, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation. The combination of tender, flavorful ground beef mixed with simple seasonings and topped with a generous layer of ketchup is a classic that never goes out of style.
My earliest memory of meatloaf takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She would always let me help tear the bread into small pieces, a task I took very seriously. As the meatloaf baked, the scent would waft through the house, and I could barely contain my excitement. Once it was finally ready, we’d gather around the table and enjoy the delicious, comforting meal together. Those Sunday dinners weren’t just about the food; they were about family, love, and the joy of sharing a home-cooked meal. Now, every time I make this meatloaf, I’m reminded of those precious moments, and I hope to pass this tradition on to my own family.
Ingredients
To make this classic meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose beef with some fat content for best results.
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 3 slices bread, torn up into small pieces: You can use bread crumbs as a substitute.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder or 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup ketchup
Instructions
Preparing the Meatloaf
Preheat the Oven:
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, egg, bread pieces, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder (or chopped onion), salt, dry ground mustard, black pepper, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture will feel a bit wet, but that’s normal.
Shape the Meatloaf:
Spread the mixture into an ungreased loaf pan. Alternatively, you can shape it into a loaf on a sheet pan. The latter method helps excess fat to drain away from the meatloaf as it cooks.
Top with Ketchup:
Spread the ketchup evenly on top of the meatloaf. This adds a wonderful tangy glaze that caramelizes as the meatloaf bakes.
Baking the Meatloaf
Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. The meatloaf is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C).
Rest:
Let the meatloaf stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.
Tips for Making the Best Meatloaf
Use Meat with Fat:
Don’t opt for lean ground beef. The fat is essential for keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful. Lean beef tends to be drier and less flavorful.
Avoid Ground Turkey:
This recipe is designed for beef, and ground turkey doesn’t provide the same texture or flavor.
Bread or Bread Crumbs:
While I prefer using cubed bread slices, you can substitute with about 1/2 cup of bread crumbs if you prefer.
Customize Your Topping:
For a twist, you can add a little balsamic vinegar to the ketchup before spreading it on top of the meatloaf. This adds a depth of flavor and a slight tang.
Cooking Method:
Baking the meatloaf on a sheet pan allows excess fat to drain away, which can result in a slightly leaner finished product. If you prefer to use a loaf pan, that works just as well.
Variations and Substitutions
Onion Options:
If you’re not a fan of onion powder or don’t have it on hand, finely chopped fresh onion works perfectly and adds a bit of texture to the meatloaf.
Spice It Up:
For those who like a bit of heat, consider increasing the hot sauce or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Different Glazes:
While ketchup is the classic topping, you can experiment with barbecue sauce, a mixture of ketchup and mustard, or even a tomato-based salsa for a different flavor profile.
Why This Recipe is Appealing
This old-fashioned Momma’s meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food. It’s easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The recipe’s simplicity allows the flavors of the beef and seasonings to shine through. The addition of bread and milk keeps the meatloaf moist, while the ketchup topping adds a delightful sweetness and tang.
Moreover, this meatloaf recipe is versatile. You can prepare it ahead of time, freeze it, and bake it when you’re ready for a hearty meal. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week.
In conclusion, this old-fashioned meatloaf is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to the past, a reminder of family traditions, and a testament to the joy of home-cooked comfort food. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy making and eating this delicious, nostalgic dish.
