Making a classic Southern meatloaf is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. It’s the kind of dish that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia, standing as a culinary cornerstone of many families’ gatherings. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe promises to deliver both comfort and satisfaction. I always look forward to that first slice, where the flavorful crust meets the tender, juicy interior.
The essence of this meatloaf lies in its simple yet wholesome ingredients. Featuring 1 pound of ground beef, a mix of fresh veggies like 1/2 cup of chopped onion and 1/2 cup of chopped bell pepper, and savory components such as 1/4 cup of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, this dish is full of flavor. The addition of 1/2 cup breadcrumbs keeps the meatloaf moist, while the 1/2 cup of milk ensures everything binds beautifully. A touch of brown sugar lends a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory notes.
You’ll find that this recipe is incredibly easy to follow. First, you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes. Then, it’s a matter of mixing the ground beef with the other ingredients and shaping them into a loaf. Top it off with a glaze made of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, and then bake it until it’s golden and cooked through. Simple as that!
This meatloaf is an excellent choice for family dinners, satisfying and enticing everyone at the table. It’s equally perfect for potlucks, providing a familiar and beloved option that’s certain to please an array of palates.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Southern Meatloaf with Glazed Topping
- Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in under 15 minutes of prep time.
- Simple Ingredients: All the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime.
- Comfort Food: The classic flavors bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
- Versatile: Enjoy it with various sides or in sandwiches for leftovers.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this delicious dish.
Ground Beef Tips
When selecting the ground beef for your classic meatloaf, look for 80/20 beef (80% lean, 20% fat). This blend strikes the perfect balance between flavor and moisture. The fat provides richness and helps prevent the meatloaf from becoming too dry. Additionally, be mindful of the color – the meat should be a bright red, not brown or gray, as this can indicate spoilage.
Options for Substitutions
- Ground Turkey: A leaner option that reduces the fat content.
- Oats: Replace breadcrumbs with rolled oats for added texture and fiber.
- Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free version.
- Mushrooms: Finely chopped mushrooms can enhance flavor and moisture.
- Spices: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Barbecue Sauce: Swap ketchup for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Watch Out for These Mistakes
One common mistake is overcooking the meatloaf. It’s crucial to monitor the internal temperature; overcooking can lead to a dry texture. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Another issue is neglecting to let the meatloaf rest post-baking. Allowing it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing holds in the juices and ensures every bite is succulent.
It’s also essential to mix your ingredients just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense meatloaf instead of the tender, airy texture you want.
Lastly, don’t skip preheating your oven. Baking in a preheated environment ensures even cooking and helps develop that beautiful crust.
What to Serve With Classic Southern Meatloaf with Glazed Topping?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, mac and cheese is a beloved choice that complements its rich flavors nicely.
Storage Instructions
Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the meatloaf, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to 3 months. This is a great way to have a delicious meal ready for a busy day.
Reheat: For stovetop reheating, place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. For microwave reheating, cover the meatloaf with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
Recipe Info
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1,200-1,400
- Protein: 90-100 g
- Fat: 60-80 g
- Carbohydrates: 80-100 g
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly. Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Soak the Breadcrumbs
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for adding moisture to the meatloaf and helps bind the mixture together.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, the soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are combined, but avoid over-mixing.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
Take the mixture and form it into a loaf shape. Place the formed meatloaf in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the sides and top for a uniform appearance.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Brush this mixture over the top of the meatloaf, creating a sweet and tangy glaze that will enhance the flavors.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy to ensure it is fully cooked.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then, slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Conclusion
This classic Southern meatloaf with glazed topping is a timeless dish that caters to both nostalgia and flavor. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a hearty meal that the whole family will love. I invite you to try out this recipe at home. Feel free to share your experience in the comments or explore other comforting recipes on my blog. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance, shape it into a loaf, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
Is this meatloaf gluten-free?
You can make this meatloaf gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.
Can I freeze meatloaf after cooking?
Yes. Once the meatloaf is fully cooked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for later enjoyment.
Print
Classic Southern Meatloaf with Glazed Topping
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful classic Southern meatloaf, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish.
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, then brush it over the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Allowing the meatloaf to rest helps retain the juices for a more succulent slice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg