Classic Meatloaf Dinner: A Timeless Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Classic Meatloaf Dinner is a beloved dish that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort for many. This hearty meal has been a staple in American households for generations, often gracing the dinner table during family gatherings and special occasions. The origins of meatloaf can be traced back to the 5th century, but it gained immense popularity in the United States during the Great Depression, when it provided a way to stretch limited resources into a satisfying meal.

People adore Classic Meatloaf Dinner not only for its rich, savory flavor but also for its delightful texture that combines the tenderness of ground meat with the satisfying crunch of breadcrumbs and vegetables. This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for various seasonings and toppings, making it a favorite among home cooks. Additionally, its convenience—easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers—ensures that it remains a go-to option for busy families. Join us as we explore the steps to create your own delicious Classic Meatloaf Dinner that will surely become a cherished recipe in your home.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 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 (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for topping)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Allow the breadcrumbs to soak in the milk for about 5 minutes. This will help keep the meatloaf moist.
3. While the breadcrumbs are soaking, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In the bowl with the soaked breadcrumbs, add the ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.

Shaping the Meatloaf

5. Transfer the meat mixture to a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. If using a loaf pan, press the mixture down gently to ensure it holds its shape.
6. If you prefer a crustier exterior, shaping the meatloaf on a baking sheet is recommended. This allows the heat to circulate around the meatloaf, creating a nice crust.

Preparing the Topping

7. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar (if using). This will create a sweet and tangy glaze for the top of your meatloaf.
8. Spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the meatloaf moist during baking.

Baking the Meatloaf

9. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy.
10. Halfway through the baking time, you may want to check the meatloaf. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
11. Once the meatloaf is done, 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 meatloaf.

Preparing the Sides

1. While the meatloaf is baking, you can prepare your favorite side dishes. Classic sides for meatloaf include mashed potatoes, green beans, and a simple salad.
2. For mashed potatoes, peel and chop about 2 pounds of potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. For green beans, trim the ends and steam or boil them for about 5-7 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Toss with a little butter, salt, and pepper before serving.
4. For a simple salad, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your choice of dressing.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Classic Meatloaf Dinner is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that brings back the nostalgia of home-cooked goodness. The combination of savory flavors, tender texture, and the delightful glaze makes it a standout dish that is sure to please both family and friends. Whether you serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad, this meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to customize your meal to suit your taste. For those looking to add a twist, consider incorporating different herbs or spices, or even adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different glazes, such as barbecue sauce or a tangy ketchup-mustard blend, to give your meatloaf a unique flair. We encourage you to try this Classic Meatloaf Dinner and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with in the comments below or on social media. Your feedback not only helps us improve but also inspires others to dive into this delicious recipe. Happy cooking! Print