This hearty and flavorful meatloaf is a timeless dinner favorite, combining ground beef with a savory blend of vegetables and seasonings, all topped with a tangy glaze. It’s perfect for a comforting family meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup minced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 2 pounds extra-lean ground beef
• 3 slices bread, toasted and crumbled
• 7 buttery round crackers, crushed
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 3 1/2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce, divided
• 1/4 cup milk, or as needed (optional)
• 3 tablespoons ketchup

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and garlic; cook and stir until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled toast, crushed crackers, beaten egg, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, cooled onion and garlic mixture, 1/2 of the tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little milk as needed.
4. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining tomato sauce and ketchup; pour this over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake in the preheated oven until the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 1 hour. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).
7. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Facts

• Calories: 232
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 94mg
• Sodium: 875mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 23g

The History of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has origins dating back to ancient times, when people combined ground meat with grains, nuts, and seasonings to create a nourishing meal. The concept evolved through the centuries, with different regions adding their own unique twists.

The modern version of meatloaf became popular in the United States during the Great Depression. Families needed affordable meals that could stretch ingredients, and meatloaf was the perfect solution. By mixing ground meat with breadcrumbs, crackers, or oats, cooks were able to make a small amount of meat go further while maintaining a delicious taste and texture.

Over time, different regions developed their own styles of meatloaf. Some variations include spicy Cajun-inspired meatloaf, barbecue-glazed versions from the South, and Italian-style meatloaf infused with Parmesan cheese and herbs. No matter the style, meatloaf remains a comforting and satisfying meal enjoyed by people of all ages.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Classic Meatloaf is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of simple pantry staples, aromatic seasonings, and a rich tomato glaze makes it a crowd-pleaser. Unlike other meat-based dishes that require extensive preparation, this recipe comes together quickly and bakes to perfection in about an hour.

This recipe stands out because it balances moisture, flavor, and texture perfectly. One of the challenges of making meatloaf is ensuring that it does not become dry or too dense. This version achieves the ideal consistency by incorporating sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and a mix of breadcrumbs and crackers.

Another reason this recipe is a favorite is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the spices, use different types of ground meat, or experiment with unique toppings. Some people prefer a sweet ketchup-based glaze, while others enjoy a spicy barbecue sauce or even a creamy mushroom gravy. The possibilities are endless.

Health Benefits of Meatloaf

While meatloaf is often associated with indulgent comfort food, it also offers several nutritional benefits. When prepared with lean ground beef and wholesome ingredients, it provides a good source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.

• High-Quality Protein – Ground beef is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body function.
• Rich in Iron and Zinc – Red meat is a great source of iron, which helps transport oxygen throughout the body, and zinc, which supports the immune system.
• Good Source of B Vitamins – Meatloaf contains B vitamins such as B12, niacin, and riboflavin, which contribute to energy production and brain health.
• Balanced with Fiber and Nutrients – By incorporating breadcrumbs, crackers, or vegetables into the mixture, meatloaf can provide additional fiber and essential nutrients.

For those looking to make a healthier version, using leaner meat, whole-grain breadcrumbs, and reducing sodium content can help create a more balanced dish.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Meatloaf

Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Here are some classic and creative options:

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes complement the hearty texture of meatloaf. A drizzle of gravy enhances the flavor even more.
• Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus adds color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
• Macaroni and Cheese – A cheesy, creamy mac and cheese side dish makes for the ultimate comfort food pairing.
• Coleslaw – A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the richness of meatloaf.
• Green Beans – Classic green beans sautéed with garlic and butter add a simple yet delicious touch.
• Cornbread – A slice of warm cornbread with a hint of honey pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of meatloaf.
• Garden Salad – A crisp salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy dressing balances the meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Meatloaf

To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind when preparing Classic Meatloaf:

• Use the Right Meat Ratio – A blend of 80% lean and 20% fat ground beef ensures a juicy and flavorful meatloaf without being too greasy.
• Don’t Overmix – Mixing the ingredients too much can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Gently combine until everything is just incorporated.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
• Use a Loaf Pan or Free-Form – Baking in a loaf pan helps maintain shape and even cooking, but free-forming on a baking sheet creates crispier edges.
• Customize the Glaze – Adjust the glaze by adding brown sugar, mustard, hot sauce, or Worcestershire sauce for a unique twist.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Meatloaf

If you have leftover meatloaf, there are plenty of ways to repurpose it into new and exciting meals:

• Meatloaf Sandwich – Slice the meatloaf and serve it between two slices of toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
• Meatloaf Sliders – Make mini meatloaf sandwiches using dinner rolls and a dollop of barbecue sauce.
• Meatloaf Tacos – Crumble the meatloaf and serve it in warm tortillas with salsa and avocado.
• Breakfast Hash – Chop up leftover meatloaf and sauté it with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty breakfast.
• Pasta Sauce – Crumble the meatloaf and mix it into marinara sauce for a rich and flavorful pasta topping.
• Stuffed Peppers – Dice the meatloaf and mix it with rice and vegetables to stuff into bell peppers for a delicious baked meal.

Conclusion

Classic Meatloaf is a dish that embodies comfort, tradition, and home-cooked goodness. Its rich flavors, tender texture, and ease of preparation make it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it to your taste, meatloaf is a meal that never goes out of style. From its historical roots to its modern-day popularity, meatloaf has stood the test of time. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—whether you enjoy it fresh, use it in leftovers, or experiment with different seasonings, it remains a reliable and satisfying choice.