Classic Homestyle Meatloaf

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 15 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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There's something wonderfully comforting about a Classic Homestyle Meatloaf. This recipe is perfect for those cozy family dinners, delivering on flavor and nostalgia. It's a delightful mix of beef and pork, enhanced by a sweet and tangy glaze that brings it all together.

Ingredients for Classic Homestyle Meatloaf

Ground beef forms the bulk of the meatloaf, providing a hearty and rich flavor. Ground pork adds a touch of sweetness and extra moisture, preventing the loaf from drying out. Breadcrumbs are crucial for binding the mixture, while milk ensures the meatloaf stays soft and tender. Eggs act as an additional binder, ensuring everything holds together nicely. The onion and garlic infuse the meat with savory depth. Worcestershire sauce adds an umami punch, balancing the flavors with a hint of tang. All this is seasoned with salt and black pepper for a simple yet effective seasoning. Finally, the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a sweet and tangy finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a finer texture, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes before adding them to the meat.
  • If you don’t have a loaf pan, shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet.
  • To ensure even cooking, try to make the loaf uniform in thickness.

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A side of green beans or a simple garden salad can add a refreshing balance to the richness of the meatloaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all beef instead of a mix of beef and pork?
Yes, you can, but the pork adds a nice moisture and subtle flavor that beef alone might miss.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers or oats can work as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
How can I tell if the meatloaf is done?
Using a meat thermometer, check for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you the perfect temperature to cook your meatloaf evenly. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, and breadcrumbs. These form the base of your meatloaf, and getting them mixed well is key.

Next, add the milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the mix. Use your hands (or a sturdy spoon if you prefer) to mix everything until it's well combined. You want all those flavors to meld together without overworking the meat.

Once mixed, transfer your meat mixture to a greased loaf pan. Shape it into a nice, even loaf. This helps it cook uniformly and looks great when sliced.

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of your meatloaf. It will caramelize in the oven, creating a delicious crust.

Now, bake your meatloaf in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). This ensures the meat is cooked through but still juicy.

Once done, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This brief pause helps the juices redistribute, making each slice perfect.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly.
  • Packed with flavor from a mix of meats and a tangy glaze.
  • Perfectly moist thanks to a careful balance of breadcrumbs and milk.
  • Makes great leftovers for sandwiches or next-day meals.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, and breadcrumbs.
3. Add milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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