Why Make This Recipe
Mom’s Best Meatloaf is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dining table. Perfect for family dinners, this meatloaf is easy to make and full of flavor. It combines simple ingredients that most people already have in their kitchens, making it a convenient choice for a busy weeknight meal. Each bite of this juicy meatloaf, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, is sure to take you back to home-cooked meals and cherished family memories.
How to Make Mom’s Best Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
- Spread half of the glaze on top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze on top.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Mom’s Best Meatloaf
Mom’s Best Meatloaf can be served warm and sliced into hearty pieces. It pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with extra ketchup or serve it with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
How to Store Mom’s Best Meatloaf
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, before placing it in the freezer.
Tips to Make Mom’s Best Meatloaf
- For added moisture, you can mix in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots.
- If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be used as a substitute.
- To avoid a dry meatloaf, make sure not to overmix your ingredients.
Variation
You can try adding cheese to the meat mixture for extra flavor. Cheddar or mozzarella work well. For a spicy kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey may require slightly different cooking times.
2. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.
3. Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it well.
Mom’s Best Meatloaf
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A classic meatloaf recipe that combines simple ingredients for a delicious, hearty meal, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
- Spread half of the glaze on top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze on top.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For added moisture, mix in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American