Meatloaf is a meatloaf. This makes me a little sceptical. It’s delicious when done well. Classic Homemade Meatloaf is the classic meatloaf we love. It’s tender, juicy, rich in flavour, and has a perfect tomato glaze. This meatloaf is perfect when served with mashed potatoes or green beans. It’s like a plate of comfort food!

THE SECRET TO GOOD MEATLOAF

Milk. Milk is the secret to great meatloaf. Although it sounds strange, milk makes all the difference. The breadcrumbs used in meatloaf as a binder are hydrated by milk, keeping them super moist.

I tried this recipe without milk during the testing phase. I was curious if it made a difference. Meatloaf without milk was more dense and tough than meatloaf with milk. It was also noticeably dryer. So please don’t skip it! P.S. P.S.

LOAF PAN OR BAKING SHEET

When it comes to meatloaf, there are two options: baking in a loaf pan and on a baking sheet. Although I am a fan of the baking sheet, I believe it will come down to individual preference. Loaf pans are too hot for evaporation, leading to the bottom becoming a bit soupy. Baking sheets allow for more evaporation which leaves the meatloaf juicy and delicious.

HOW TO PREVENT MEATLOAF FROM SLEEPING APART

Several tricks will help you make a meatloaf with nice, tight slices. These are some tips:

  • Use the right amount (egg, breadcrumbs) in your recipe. This is the glue that holds together the meat.
  • Ground beef should be ground with a finer grind or double ground. Ground beef that is too coarse won’t mix well with the binders and can crumble when cut.
  • As finely as you can chop the onion. The loaf will not hold together if it contains large chunks of onion.

MEATLOAF: WHAT TO SERVE

The Mashed Potatoes with Steamed Green Beans is my favourite meatloaf pairing. It is simple and classic and perfectly complements the meatloaf with its tangy glaze. Here are some side dishes that go well with meatloaf.

  • Roasted Broccoli
  • Broccoli Shells and Cheese
  • Mushroom Rice
  • Potato Salad
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts
  • Honey-Balsamic Glazed Carrots
  • Sweet Potato Biscuits
  • Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
  • Potatoes au Gratin
  • Three Bean Salad
  • Garlic Bread

CLASSIC MEATLOAF

This classic meatloaf recipe tastes just like the one your grandma used. Perfect tomato glaze makes this tender and delicious meatloaf!

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS

MEATLOAF

  • 1 large egg ($0.21)
  • 1/3 cup milk (0.14)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce ($0.02)
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs ($0.32)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning ($0.10)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder ($0.05).
  • 1 teaspoon salt ($0.02)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper ($0.02)
  • 1/2 cup minced onions ($0.14)
  • 1.5 lbs. Ground beef (85/15), ($8.03)

GLAZE

  • 1/2 cup ketchup ($0.40).
  • 1 Tbsp brown sugar ($0.02)
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce ($0.06)
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard ($0.03)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Pre-heat the oven to 350oF Mix together the egg yolk, milk, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasonings, garlic powder, salt, and salt in a separate bowl. Mince the onion.
  • Combine the egg mixture, minced onion, breadcrumb mixture, ground beef, and breadcrumbs in a large bowl. Mix the ingredients until well combined. Do not overmix.
  • You will need to shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf about 4-inches in width, 8-inches in length, and 2-inches high.
  • Mix the glaze ingredients: mustard, Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar in a small bowl. The glaze should be evenly spread over the top and sides.
  • Bake the meatloaf in the oven for 50 to 55 minutes or until it reaches 165°F. After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 mins before slicing and serving.