Introduction and Origin
Classic Meatloaf is a comforting and hearty dish that has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. Its origins trace back to European cuisine, particularly from German and Scandinavian roots, where ground meats were mixed with bread and seasonings. In the U.S., it gained popularity during the Great Depression for its affordability and flexibility.
Cultural Significance
Meatloaf represents the spirit of resourcefulness and home-cooked tradition. It became a symbol of family meals in mid-century America, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, satisfying flavor, and the personal touches each cook brings to the recipe.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup ketchup
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for depth
- ½ cup milk for a moister loaf
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano for herbal notes
- 1 tablespoon mustard or BBQ sauce in the glaze
- A handful of shredded cheese mixed into the meat
Tips for Success
- Use a blend of ground beef with some fat for juiciness (80/20 ratio works well).
- Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense loaf—combine just until incorporated.
- Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes after baking to retain juices.
- Line the loaf pan with parchment or shape the loaf on a baking sheet to allow browning on all sides.
- Glaze the top with ketchup during the last 15 minutes of baking for that iconic sticky-sweet finish.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a small pan with a bit of oil until softened (optional but enhances flavor).
- Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, sautéed vegetables, and ketchup in a large bowl. Mix gently by hand or with a spatula.
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in a loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Glaze with additional ketchup in the last 15 minutes if desired.
- Rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Description
Moist, savory, and richly flavored, Classic Meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a tangy ketchup glaze makes every bite nostalgic and satisfying.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
Classic Meatloaf is a timeless recipe that brings warmth to the dinner table. Whether served with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and even better as leftovers.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make meatloaf more health-conscious, consider using leaner ground meats like turkey, substituting oats for breadcrumbs, and adding more vegetables to the mix. Baked instead of fried and portioned mindfully, it’s a dish that balances comfort and wellness with ease.