Grandma’s Hug: The Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe We All Love

Comfort food takes center stage with this old fashioned meatloaf recipe that promises pure, nostalgic goodness.

Generations have cherished this hearty dish for its rich, savory flavors and simple preparation.

Tender ground beef mingles with herbs and spices, creating a mouthwatering meal that feels like a warm hug.

The classic meatloaf brings back memories of family dinners and weekend gatherings around the table.

Each slice promises a perfect balance of meaty texture and delicious seasonings that everyone will love.

Packed with traditional ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, this recipe delivers a timeless favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Prepare to savor every delectable bite of this comforting classic.

FAQs

• Why use breadcrumbs in meatloaf?

Breadcrumbs help bind the meat together, prevent it from becoming too dense, and add a lighter texture to the meatloaf. They absorb moisture and help keep the meat tender and juicy during cooking.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Ground turkey tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit more moisture to prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry.

• How do I know the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The meatloaf is safe to eat when it reaches 160°F at the center. This ensures that any harmful bacteria are eliminated and the meat is cooked through.

• What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?

If your meatloaf turns out dry, you can serve it with extra sauce, gravy, or a dollop of sour cream to add moisture. Next time, try adding a bit more beef broth or using a slightly fattier ground beef to keep it juicy.

Why Old Fashioned Meatloaf Is Still a Favorite

• This classic meatloaf recipe delivers ultimate home-style cooking with minimal kitchen skills required, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
• Packed with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this meatloaf becomes an instant family favorite that satisfies everyone's hunger and craving for hearty meals.
• The recipe allows flexible ingredient adjustments, letting home cooks personalize flavors by tweaking seasonings or adding extra herbs to match their taste preferences without complicated modifications.
• Using affordable ground beef and pantry staples, this meatloaf provides an economical meal option that stretches ingredients while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction for the entire family.

Classic Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base for the classic meatloaf that provides rich meaty texture.

• Breadcrumbs, Egg: Help bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist during cooking.
• Beef Broth: Adds extra moisture and enhances the meat's savory flavor.

• Grated Onion: Provides a subtle sweet and aromatic base to the meatloaf.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Delivers a deep, tangy umami flavor to the meat mixture.
• Tomato Paste: Contributes a rich, concentrated tomato taste and helps with color.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that amplify the overall taste of the meatloaf.

• Ketchup, Brown Sugar, Worcestershire Sauce: Create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on top of the meatloaf.

How to Make Traditional Meatloaf at Home

Step 1: Whip Up the Glaze

Create a tantalizing topping by blending ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl.

This sweet and savory mixture will transform into a mouthwatering caramelized coating during baking.

Step 2: Mix the Meat Base

In a large mixing bowl, break down ground beef into crumbly pieces.

• Breadcrumbs
• Grated onion

• Beef broth
• Egg
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Seasonings

Pour the liquid mixture over the beef and massage thoroughly with your hands to ensure perfect integration of flavors.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Spread a few tablespoons of the prepared sauce on the bottom of a bread pan.

Carefully transfer the meat mixture into the pan, pressing and shaping it evenly.

Lavishly coat the top with the remaining glaze for a stunning golden finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Slide the meatloaf into the oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes.

Check the internal temperature, aiming for 160°F.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

This brief pause allows the meatloaf to set, ensuring clean and beautiful slices when served.

Tips for a Moist and Flavorful Meatloaf

• Use your hands to gently mix ingredients without overworking the meat, which can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
• Add a splash of beef broth or red wine to enhance the rich, savory taste of your meatloaf, creating more complex flavor profiles.
• Cover the pan with foil during the first 45 minutes of baking to retain moisture, ensuring a juicy and tender result every time.
• Brush extra sauce on top during the last 15 minutes of baking for a caramelized, glossy finish that adds both visual appeal and extra flavor.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after baking, allowing juices to redistribute and making slicing cleaner and more precise.

Storage and Warming Tips for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, it will keep fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual slices or whole meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Place meatloaf slice on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature midway.
• Preheat oven to 250°F. Place meatloaf in a baking dish, add a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture. Cover with foil and warm for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Side Dishes That Pair with Classic Meatloaf

• Savory Wine Companion: Pair this hearty meatloaf with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot, which complements the rich, meaty flavors and cuts through the sweetness of the ketchup glaze.
• Comfort Side Symphony: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans to create a balanced plate that enhances the meatloaf's robust taste and provides textural contrast.
• Tangy Condiment Kick: Add a zesty homemade coleslaw or quick pickled vegetables to brighten the dish, introducing a crisp acidity that balances the dense, savory meatloaf and cuts through its richness.
• Beer Buddy Pairing: Choose an amber ale or brown ale that matches the caramelized sauce's depth, offering a malty sweetness that harmonizes with the meat's umami profile without overpowering the dish.

Fun Ways to Customize This Classic Recipe

• Gluten-Free Meatloaf: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers, almond flour, or quinoa flakes for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Lean Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat version that maintains similar texture and flavor profile.
• Vegetable-Packed Option: Mix finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini into the meat mixture to increase nutritional value and add extra moisture to the meatloaf.
• Low-Sodium Adaptation: Use low-sodium beef broth, reduce Worcestershire sauce, and replace ketchup with homemade tomato sauce to control salt content for heart-healthy diets.

Old Fashioned Meatloaf Classic Meatloaf Recipe

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4.8 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Old Fashioned Meatloaf brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, blending ground beef, herbs, and classic seasonings into a nostalgic meal. Families will savor each tender slice, rediscovering why this traditional American dinner remains a beloved staple on dinner tables across the country.

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Ingredients

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Meatloaf Ingredients:

Protein:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef (preferably 80/20)
• 1 beaten egg

Dry Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Liquid and Flavor Enhancers:

• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup grated onion
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Sauce:

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

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Instructions

1. Prepare the caramelizing glaze by whisking together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar until smooth and well-combined. Set the vibrant mixture aside for later use.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, gently crumble the ground beef, creating a loose base. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated onion evenly across the meat’s surface.
3. Create a separate mixture by combining beef broth, egg, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and selected seasonings. Pour this flavorful liquid directly over the beef, then use hands to thoroughly incorporate all ingredients until uniformly blended.
4. Grease a bread pan and spread a thin layer of prepared sauce on the bottom. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan, pressing firmly to create an even, compact loaf shape.
5. Generously coat the entire surface of the meatloaf with remaining sauce, ensuring complete coverage for maximum caramelization.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Position the meatloaf in the center rack and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes. Monitor internal temperature, aiming for 160°F for perfect doneness.
7. Once cooked, remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps the meat retain its structure and enhances overall flavor before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Enhance meat texture by using a mix of ground beef and pork for added moisture and richer flavor.
• Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent a tough, dense meatloaf that crumbles when sliced.
• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for celiac-friendly version.
• Create make-ahead option by preparing the meatloaf a day in advance and refrigerating before baking for deeper flavor development.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg