Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

Why Make This Recipe

Old-fashioned meatloaf is a classic dish that many people love. It is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. This recipe is simple to make, and it uses ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen.

Meatloaf can feed a family, and it tastes even better the next day as leftovers.

How To Make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

Ingredients:

1. 1.5 lbs ground beef
2. 1 cup breadcrumbs
3. 1 small onion, finely chopped
4. 1/2 cup milk
5. 2 large eggs
6. 2 tablespoons ketchup
7. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
8. 2 teaspoons salt
9. 1 teaspoon black pepper
10. 1 cup ketchup (for topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Make sure to mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a baking dish.
4. Spread ketchup on top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to cook, making a total of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It serves 6 people, and each serving has about 400 calories, along with 25 grams of protein and 25 grams of fat.

How To Serve Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

Serve the meatloaf warm, sliced, and topped with extra ketchup if you like. It goes well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy it with your family at the dinner table.

How To Store Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for later. Just wrap it in foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips To Make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

1. Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content.
2. Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Make sure not to over-mix the meatloaf, as it may become tough.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

Old-fashioned meatloaf is high in protein, thanks to the beef and eggs. Protein helps to build and repair muscles. The onions add flavor and vitamins, while the breadcrumbs give it a nice texture. When served with vegetables, this meal can be balanced and nutritious.

Variation

You can try making meatloaf with different types of ground meat, like turkey or chicken, for a lighter version. Adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning can also change the flavor!

FAQs

1. Can I use oatmeal instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs. It will give the meatloaf a different texture but will still be delicious.

2. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge for a day before cooking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking.

3. What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
Make sure to measure the ingredients correctly and consider adding a little more milk or using ground beef with more fat content. You can also serve it with extra ketchup or a sauce on the side.