Momma’s Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Momma’s Meatloaf is a comforting classic that brings together savory ground beef and a flavorful blend of herbs and spices. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, this dish is perfect for family dinners and meal prep alike.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (85/15 or leaner preferred)
• 1/2 cup diced white onion
• 1 cup plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, 1%, or skim)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, bread crumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, dried basil, dried oregano, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Knead the mixture with clean hands until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 2 inches high. Place it centered in the prepared baking dish.
4. Step 4: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes.
5. Step 5: While baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl until smooth.
6. Step 6: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully brush the glaze evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (205°C). Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) measured with a food thermometer.
8. Step 8: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, substitute half the ground beef with ground pork or turkey.
• Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed crackers if avoiding gluten.
• Try swapping the glaze for BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf slices for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it the day before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.

What can I serve with Momma’s Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Momma’s Meatloaf Recipe

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4.5 from 101 reviews

Momma’s Meatloaf is a classic, hearty dish featuring seasoned ground beef blended with aromatics and spices, baked to perfection with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, offering a delicious balance of savory flavors and a moist texture.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf

• 2 pounds ground beef (85/15 or leaner preferred)
• 1/2 cup diced white onion
• 1 cup plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, 1%, or skim)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Glaze

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish using nonstick cooking spray to prevent the meatloaf from sticking.
2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, bread crumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, dried basil, dried oregano, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Knead with clean hands until all ingredients are evenly mixed but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape approximately 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 2 inches high. Place the shaped loaf in the center of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake Initial Meatloaf: Place the dish in the oven and bake the meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
5. Prepare the Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl until smooth to create the glaze.
6. Apply Glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven carefully and brush the glaze generously over the top of the loaf.
7. Bake with Glaze: Increase oven temperature to 400°F (205°C) and return the glazed meatloaf to the oven. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the meat is fully cooked.
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps retain juices and makes slicing easier. Serve warm.

Notes

• Using lean ground beef (85/15 or leaner) helps reduce excess fat while keeping the meatloaf moist.
• Do not overmix ingredients to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf.
• Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure safe doneness.
• You can substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs if available, adjusting quantities accordingly.
• Leftover meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches or can be reheated for another meal.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf recipe, baked meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef recipe, easy dinner