What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for a cozy family dinner. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, using everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. *The blend of savory herbs and spices creates a rich, delicious taste that’s hard to resist.* *It’s also incredibly versatile, so you can customize it with your favorite add-ins like cheese, veggies, or a tangy glaze.* *Plus, leftovers make for amazing sandwiches the next day!*
Recipe
Intro:
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, baked to perfection. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, brush the top with additional ketchup before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Meat thermometer
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6-8 slices
Nutrition
This meatloaf recipe provides essential nutrients for a balanced meal. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
What To Serve With It
When I serve meatloaf, I love pairing it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a cozy, familiar meal. Sometimes, though, I get creative and try roasted veggies or a tangy coleslaw to mix things up. It’s all about finding what feels right for the moment and makes the meal complete.
Classic Side Dishes
Since meatloaf has such a hearty flavor, I like pairing it with sides that balance it out, and mashed potatoes are always a go-to for me—creamy, buttery, and way too easy to make. Another classic choice is green beans, either steamed with a hint of garlic or baked in a casserole with crispy onions on top. Roasted carrots or glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory meatloaf perfectly. And let’s not forget a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to lighten things up. These sides keep the meal comforting and familiar, just like home.
Creative Pairing Ideas
Though meatloaf is a classic comfort food, I love experimenting with sides that bring a fresh twist to the table. For something a little different, I’ll whip up a tangy cucumber salad with dill or roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze. Creamy polenta or garlic mashed cauliflower also pair beautifully, adding a cozy but unexpected touch. I’ve even swapped traditional rolls for warm cornbread or cheesy biscuits. A side of spicy collard greens or a bright citrus slaw balances the richness, and who can resist a little mac and cheese for extra indulgence? Mixing it up keeps every bite exciting!
