Easy Meatloaf
When you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner with minimal fuss, this easy meatloaf recipe delivers. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
The combination of ground beef, onions, and milk creates a moist, tender loaf, while a hint of ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar forms a sweet, tangy glaze that enhances every bite. It’s the perfect mix of savory and satisfying flavors.
Serve this classic meatloaf with mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to please. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this meatloaf is a true crowd-pleaser.
Easy Meatloaf Ingredients
- Ground Beef: The heart of the meatloaf, bringing rich flavor and hearty texture, perfect for a filling main course.
- Egg: Acts as the binding hero, giving the meatloaf structure while keeping each slice moist and tender.
- Onion: Adds a savory sweetness that balances and deepens the meat’s flavor profile.
- Milk: Keeps the loaf juicy and tender by adding moisture, making every bite irresistibly soft.
- Bread Crumbs: Absorbs juices and enhances texture, creating a perfectly cohesive loaf.
- Ketchup & Mustard Glaze: A tangy, sweet topping that caramelizes as it bakes, adding an inviting layer of flavor.
Each ingredient comes together to create a classic comfort food that’s both simple and satisfying.
Easy Meatloaf
This Easy Meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort dish that delivers heartiness and flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, making it a go-to favorite for busy weeknights. Below, you’ll find tips to enhance your meatloaf, suggestions for sides, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: While ground beef is the traditional choice, you can experiment with a blend of ground beef and pork for added flavor and moisture. Aim for a mix that has a bit of fat for a juicy result, ideally around 80/20 beef to fat ratio.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, be cautious not to overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overworking can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined for a tender, juicy result that holds together perfectly.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice more flavorful and easier to cut without falling apart.
What to Serve with Easy Meatloaf
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing, creamy mashed potatoes absorb the savory juices from the meatloaf, making every bite a delight. Consider adding garlic or sour cream to the mash for extra flavor.
- Steamed Green Beans: Fresh, steamed green beans offer a crisp contrast to the meatloaf’s texture. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt for a simple yet delicious side that adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Side Salad: A light side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing can balance the richness of the meatloaf. The crispness of the salad provides a refreshing complement to the hearty flavors of the dish.
FAQ
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Be sure to add extra moisture, such as a bit more milk or an additional egg, to prevent dryness. - How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn. - Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking. - What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for alternatives to breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa can work well as binding agents. Each will impart a unique flavor and texture to your meatloaf.
With these tips, serving suggestions, and FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to create a delicious Easy Meatloaf that your family will love!
Easy Meatloaf
Ingredients
- Ground beef 1 ½ pounds
- Dried bread crumbs 1 cup
- Onion chopped (1)
- Egg large (1)
- Milk 1 cup
- Ketchup ⅓ cup
- Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
- Prepared mustard 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, milk, dried bread crumbs, and the large egg. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to your liking, then transfer it into the greased loaf pan.
- In a separate small bowl, blend together the ketchup, brown sugar, and prepared mustard until they are thoroughly combined. Pour this mixture over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly across the top.
- Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake until the center is no longer pink, approximately one hour.
