The Ultimate Meatloaf: Simple & Delicious Comfort Food!

The Ultimate Meatloaf: Simple & Delicious Comfort Food! 🍖🥖✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for the best meatloaf recipe that combines ease, flavor, and that comforting home-cooked feeling, you’ve come to the right place! This ultimate meatloaf is a classic dish perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family meals. With tender ground beef, savory seasonings, and a tangy ketchup glaze, this comfort food meatloaf recipe promises to become a new family favorite.

2. Ingredients Needed for the Meatloaf

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (see beef options)
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• Optional: chopped parsley or your favorite herbs for added flavor

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Ultimate Meatloaf

Mixing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, chopped onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Shaping the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For easier cleanup, using a CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set makes handling and cleaning simple.

Adding the Glaze

Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This creates a flavorful and sticky topping that enhances the overall taste and appearance of your dish.

Baking the Meatloaf

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure all the juices stay locked inside.

4. Tips for Perfecting Your Comfort Food Meatloaf

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease, or try a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
• Enhance flavor with chopped herbs like parsley or thyme.
• Use a Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 to cook individual slices for crispy edges if you prefer a different texture.

5. Storage & Reheating Tips for Leftover Meatloaf

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave slices or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For quick refrigeration, consider using the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set to keep your leftovers fresh and organized.

6. Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas

Serve your comfort food meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted carrots. For a healthy twist, try pairing it with a side of healthy broccoli pasta.

Drizzle with extra ketchup or gravy and enjoy your meal with a cold drink from the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, substitutions like ground turkey or chicken work well and make the ultimate meatloaf lighter. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.

How long does it take to prepare and cook the meatloaf?

Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, with a baking time of approximately 1 hour. Total time is roughly 1 hour 20 minutes.

What are some healthy variations?

Try adding vegetables like shredded zucchini or carrots, or swap out breadcrumbs for oats to boost fiber. Using lean turkey reduces fat content.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — This set makes mixing and baking effortless, and cleanup is a breeze.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Perfect for chopping onions and garlic quickly and efficiently.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Ideal for slow cooking other comfort food dishes that complement your meal.

9. Conclusion

This ultimate meatloaf recipe is your go-to for a satisfying, home-cooked comfort food meal. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and universally loved by friends and family. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or preparing for a family gathering, this best meatloaf recipe checks all the boxes for deliciousness and ease. Try it today and indulge in one of the most beloved classic dishes!

The Ultimate Meatloaf: Simple & Delicious Comfort Food!

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Discover the best comfort food with The Ultimate Meatloaf! This simple & delicious recipe combines tender ground beef, savory seasonings, and a tangy ketchup glaze, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family meals. A classic, hearty dish loved by all.

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (see beef options)
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• Optional: chopped parsley or your favorite herbs for added flavor

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, chopped onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This enhances flavor and appearance.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

• Use lean ground beef or a beef-pork mix for extra flavor.
• For gluten-free, substitute bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
• Enhance flavor with chopped herbs like parsley or thyme.
• Use a specific cookware set for easier handling and cleaning.

• Author: Serena Miller
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: All dietary options

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 125 mg