Why Make This Recipe
Mom’s Best Meatloaf is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting meal that brings back memories of family dinners and warm kitchens. It is simple to make and requires basic ingredients found in most pantries. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a Sunday family gathering. It’s hearty, satisfying, and always a hit with both kids and adults.
How to Make Mom’s Best Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, diced onion, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup ketchup with brown sugar and spread it over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Mom’s Best Meatloaf
Serve Mom’s Best Meatloaf warm. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with extra ketchup or gravy on the side for added flavor.
How to Store Mom’s Best Meatloaf
To store leftover meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the sliced meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Mom’s Best Meatloaf
- Make sure not to overmix the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender.
- You can add chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies.
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different toppings like barbecue sauce for a twist.
Variation
For a flavorful twist, try adding some shredded cheese or cooked bacon bits into the meat mixture. You can also switch the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
FAQs
Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just shape it into a loaf and cover it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.
Can I use oats instead of bread crumbs?
Absolutely! Rolled oats or quick oats can be used as a substitute for bread crumbs. They will add a unique texture to the meatloaf.
What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough moisture in the mixture. Make sure to check the internal temperature and add more milk or ketchup to the mixture next time for extra moisture.
Mom’s Best Meatloaf
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting and hearty meatloaf recipe that brings back family dinner memories. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, diced onion, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup ketchup with brown sugar and spread it over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Do not overmix the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender. You can add veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
