Old Fashioned Meatloaf

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals, then this Old Fashioned Meatloaf recipe is just what you need. It’s one of those timeless classics that warms your heart and fills your belly. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with family, this meatloaf is sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich flavors and delightful stick sauce on top, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!

This recipe is a favorite of mine not just for its taste but also for how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, and the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Trust me, once you try this Old Fashioned Meatloaf, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this delicious meatloaf ready to bake in just 20 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: It’s perfect for picky eaters; everyone loves the savory flavor and moist texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep it the night before and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as leftovers or turn it into sandwiches for lunch the next day—yum!
• Comfort Food Classic: The nostalgic taste of this meatloaf will remind you of cozy family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that making this Old Fashioned Meatloaf is as easy as gathering some simple ingredients. Nothing fancy here—just good, wholesome food! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatloaf

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 medium sized yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard

Variations

One of the best things about this Old Fashioned Meatloaf recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Add veggies: Mix in grated carrots or chopped bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different sauces on top—barbecue sauce or even a homemade marinara could be delicious!

How to Make Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil ensures an easy cleanup later. This step sets you up for success!

Step 2: Soak the Bread Crumbs

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of panko bread crumbs with 1 cup of milk. Stir them together until well mixed. This soaking process helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until they are fragrant and slightly brown, about 3-5 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in the minced garlic for another 2-3 minutes until soft. This step builds flavor by caramelizing the onions nicely.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your soaked bread crumbs with ground beef, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, kosher salt, and the cooled onion-garlic mixture. Use your hands to gently mix everything together without overworking the meat—this helps keep your meatloaf light and fluffy.

Step 5: Shape Your Loaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf on your prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a crisscross pattern on top; this not only looks great but also allows for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake Your Meatloaf

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. While it’s cooking, mix together ketchup, spicy brown mustard, and brown sugar in a bowl—this delicious topping will add so much flavor! After 40 minutes, spread this mixture over the top of your meatloaf and continue baking until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), which should take an additional 30-35 minutes.

And there you have it! Your very own Old Fashioned Meatloaf that’s sure to be loved by all who try it. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Making the perfect meatloaf can be a rewarding experience, and with these helpful tips, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic enhance the flavor profile of your meatloaf. Fresh ingredients provide a depth of flavor that dried or pre-packaged options simply cannot match.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overworking the meat can lead to a dense loaf instead of a tender one.
• Let it Rest: After baking, allow your meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and results in a moister slice.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. These add-ins can keep the meatloaf moist and introduce new textures.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Serving your Old Fashioned Meatloaf can be just as enjoyable as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn this comforting dish into a showstopper at your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Sliced Green Onions: Adding some sliced green onions on top gives a mild onion flavor that complements the meatloaf beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with meatloaf, providing comfort and heartiness to your meal.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized flavor from roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, making them an excellent complement.
• Cornbread: Lightly sweet cornbread pairs well with savory meatloaf, adding a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re all set to create a delightful meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your Old Fashioned Meatloaf!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Fashioned Meatloaf is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknight dinners or quick lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• After baking and cooling, slice the meatloaf into portions.
• Wrap each slice securely in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerator leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place slices on a baking dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or heat straight from the freezer at 325°F (160°C) for about 30-40 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Old Fashioned Meatloaf.

How can I make my Old Fashioned Meatloaf more flavorful?

Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this Old Fashioned Meatloaf?

Yes! Ground turkey will work well as a substitute. Just ensure you adjust cooking times slightly as turkey may cook faster than beef.

What should I serve with my Old Fashioned Meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with homemade mac and cheese for a comforting meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Old Fashioned Meatloaf as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is bound to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking!