Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings everyone together, you’ve come to the right place! My homemade meatloaf recipe is not just any ordinary dish – it’s a family favorite that’s tender and juicy on the inside, topped with a sweet and tangy chili glaze. This meatloaf is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, and trust me, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

What makes this meatloaf recipe so special? It’s made with wholesome ingredients like ground beef and cheddar cheese, all tied together with a delightful blend of seasonings. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in less than an hour, making it an ideal choice for when you need something delicious without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have this hearty meal on the table in just 75 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatloaf! It’s a classic dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and the sweet chili glaze creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s nothing like a warm slice of meatloaf to bring comfort after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious meatloaf. You might already have most of them in your pantry, which makes this recipe even easier!

For the Meatloaf

• 2 lbs ground beef (90% lean)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 1 cup bread crumbs (plain)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

For the Meatloaf Glaze

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard

Variations

This meatloaf recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Sneak in finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Cheese lovers rejoice: Try different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a fun twist.
• Herb it up: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor depth.

How to Make Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. This step ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and gets beautifully browned on top.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Cover a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with oil. This will help keep cleanup easy while preventing sticking.

Step 3: Mix Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the meatloaf. Mixing them well ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Be sure not to overmix; you want everything blended but not tough!

Step 4: Shape Your Meatloaf

Transfer your mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf. Don’t worry about making it perfect; rustic shapes often taste better!

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, sweet chili sauce, and mustard. This glaze adds that delicious sweet and tangy touch!

Step 6: Glaze and Bake

Spread half of your glaze over the top of the meatloaf before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 60 minutes until it’s cooked through. Halfway through cooking, brush more glaze on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those juicy flavors locked inside!

And there you have it—a hearty meatloaf recipe that’s sure to become a beloved dish at your dinner table! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Meatloaf Recipe

Making the perfect meatloaf is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll impress your family and friends every time!

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing 90% lean ground beef helps keep your meatloaf moist without adding excess grease, ensuring a tender texture.
• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf instead of the light and fluffy one we all love!
• Let it rest: Allowing your meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, making each slice juicy and flavorful.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Customize your glaze: While this recipe features a sweet chili glaze, feel free to experiment with different sauces like barbecue or teriyaki for a unique twist.

How to Serve Meatloaf Recipe

Serving meatloaf can be both fun and creative! Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds vibrant color and a burst of flavor that complements the rich meatloaf.
• Sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor while enhancing the visual appeal with their bright green color.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that soak up all those delicious juices from the meatloaf.
• Steamed green beans: Lightly seasoned steamed green beans provide a fresh crunch that balances the savory richness of the meatloaf.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet caramelized roasted carrots add natural sweetness and a hint of earthiness, creating a well-rounded plate.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crispness and acidity to cut through the hearty flavors, making it a refreshing side option.

Now that you’ve got all these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal. Enjoy your homemade meatloaf recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

This meatloaf recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your meatloaf fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the meatloaf into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this meatloaf recipe that might help you out.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Meatloaf Recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey works as a great alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that turkey may need additional moisture, so consider adding a bit more milk or breadcrumbs if needed.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce in this Meatloaf Recipe?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can use soy sauce or a mixture of vinegar with a little bit of sugar as a substitute. Both will add a nice depth of flavor!

How do I know when my meatloaf is done cooking?

To check if your meatloaf is fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the center; it should read at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C). If you don’t have one, cutting into the middle should show no pinkness remaining.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting meatloaf recipe! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with warmth and family memories. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday dinner, this recipe brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations!