There’s just something magical about homemade meals that transports you back to your childhood, isn’t there? One dish that always brings a smile to my face is old fashioned meatloaf. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug, with its savory flavor and hearty texture. I love how simple it is to whip up—just a few basic ingredients come together to create something truly special. When it’s baking in the oven, the aroma fills the house, making everyone eager for dinner. Trust me, this classic recipe is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic reminder of family dinners and cozy evenings. You really can’t go wrong with this old fashioned meatloaf—it’s a timeless dish that will always have a place at my table!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (I prefer using lean for a healthier option!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (these help bind everything together)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped (adds a lovely flavor)
- 1/4 cup milk (keeps the meatloaf moist and tender)
- 1 egg (this acts as a binder)
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus more for topping, of course!)
- 1 tsp salt (don’t skimp on this for flavor!)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (for just a hint of spice)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (it gives that extra depth of flavor)
How to Prepare Old Fashioned Meatloaf
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious old fashioned meatloaf! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because you want your meatloaf to start cooking right away when it hits the heat. It helps to lock in all those savory flavors!
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, ketchup, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. I like to use my hands for this part—just dive in and mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want all those ingredients to mingle nicely! Just make sure not to overmix; we want a tender meatloaf, not a brick!
Step 3: Shape and Place
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape it! Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape—about 8 to 10 inches long—and place it in a baking dish. I usually like to line the dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup, but it’s not necessary if you don’t mind a bit of scrubbing later!
Step 4: Top with Ketchup
Next up, spread a generous layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This not only adds flavor but also gives it that classic, mouthwatering glaze. You can’t have meatloaf without that ketchup topping, right? It caramelizes a bit as it bakes, creating a delicious crust!
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Now, pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. To check if it’s done, you can use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure the juices run clear and there’s no pink in the center. You’ll know it’s ready to come out!
Step 6: Rest Before Slicing
Once it’s out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. I know, waiting is tough, but this step is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice moist and flavorful. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! These estimated nutritional values are based on a serving size of 1 slice of my old fashioned meatloaf, and they might vary a bit depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But here’s what you can expect:
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This classic dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a decent amount of protein, making it a filling option for dinner. Enjoy every tasty bite knowing it’s a comforting meal that won’t break the calorie bank!
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Meatloaf
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Classic Comfort Food: There’s nothing like sinking your teeth into a slice of warm meatloaf. It’s the ultimate cozy meal that warms your heart and soul.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist a good meatloaf! It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table and sparks happy conversations.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! You can easily make it your own, whether you want to spice it up or keep it classic.
- Great for Leftovers: Meatloaf sandwiches, anyone? This dish is even tastier the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
- Budget-Friendly: It’s a delicious way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank, making it a go-to for gatherings or family dinners.
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, let’s make sure your old fashioned meatloaf turns out perfectly every single time! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Use the Right Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef, around 80/20, for the best balance of flavor and moisture. If you go too lean, your meatloaf might end up dry!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf. Just mix until everything is combined and you’re good to go.
- Try Adding Vegetables: For an extra burst of flavor and nutrition, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or celery to the mix. It adds moisture and a nice texture!
- Check the Internal Temperature: Invest in a good meat thermometer! It’s the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through without guessing. Remember, 160°F (70°C) is your magic number!
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can add different herbs like parsley or thyme, or even a splash of hot sauce for a little kick!
- Let it Rest: Seriously, don’t skip the resting step! It’s tempting to dive right in, but letting it rest makes all the difference in the juiciness of each slice.
- Use a Loaf Pan for Shape: If you want a perfectly shaped loaf, use a loaf pan! It helps maintain the shape and makes slicing a breeze.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a meatloaf master in no time! Enjoy the process, and remember—cooking is all about having fun and making delicious memories.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? You’re in for a treat! Storing and reheating old fashioned meatloaf is super simple, and I’ve got some handy tips to keep it just as delicious as the first night.
First, let your meatloaf cool completely before storing it. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or you can place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, there are a couple of great reheating methods. For the best results, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the meatloaf in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also pop individual slices in the microwave for a quick fix—just heat for about 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on it so you don’t overdo it!
And there you have it! With these easy storage and reheating methods, your old fashioned meatloaf will remain a comforting delight, ready to bring warmth to your table again and again!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this old fashioned meatloaf? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common questions I get, along with my answers to help you out:
How long does it take to cook meatloaf?
Typically, a meatloaf needs to bake for about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C). Always check for that golden, cooked-through look and an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to make sure it’s safe to eat!
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it can be a bit drier, so you might want to add an extra splash of milk or some finely chopped veggies for moisture.
What can I serve with meatloaf?
Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. For a classic touch, you can also serve it with a side of creamy coleslaw. And don’t forget some homemade gravy on top!
Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
You sure can! You can prepare the meat mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just shape it and bake it when you’re ready. It’s a fantastic time-saver!
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
No problem! If you’re out of Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar. It’ll still give your meatloaf that extra flavor punch!
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes! Freezing meatloaf is a great way to save it for later. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
If your meatloaf is crumbling, it might be due to not enough binder or too much moisture. Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg to hold it together, and avoid overmixing. A gentle hand goes a long way!
I hope these answers help clear up any questions you might have! Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Enjoy your meatloaf adventure!
Drucken
Old Fashioned Meatloaf: 5 Secrets for Comforting Success
- Gesamtzeit: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Ertrag: 4 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Low Fat
Beschreibung
A classic meatloaf recipe with a savory flavor.
Zutaten
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Anweisungen
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread additional ketchup on top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until fully cooked.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 1 hour
- Kategorie: Main Course
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 slice
- Kalorien: 250
- Zucker: 3g
- Natrium: 500mg
- Fett: 12g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 4g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 20g
- Faser: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterin: 70mg
Keywords: old fashioned meatloaf, classic meatloaf, beef loaf
