This Moist Meatloaf combines ground beef and pork for a juicy texture, complemented by aromatic herbs and a sweet ketchup glaze. It’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
½ pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
¼ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ cup ketchup (for topping)
2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
Directions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, and milk. Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the bowl.
Add Seasonings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Pour this mixture into the meat mixture and combine thoroughly, but avoid over-mixing.
Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup ketchup with brown sugar. Spread this topping evenly over the meatloaf.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Rest Before Slicing: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 25g
Why Moist Meatloaf is the Perfect Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hold as much nostalgic appeal as meatloaf. A dish often associated with family dinners and cozy home-cooked meals, meatloaf is a versatile and satisfying option that’s easy to prepare and always delicious. Its origins are believed to date back to the 18th century, with variations found in many cultures worldwide. Over the years, it has evolved into an American classic, and today’s recipe combines a blend of ground beef and pork for that juicy, flavorful texture that makes this moist meatloaf truly irresistible.
Meatloaf’s appeal lies in its simplicity, yet the combination of tender meat, flavorful herbs, and the perfect amount of seasoning elevates this dish to something far beyond basic. Adding a sweet ketchup glaze to the top brings everything together, balancing the richness of the meat and creating a succulent finish. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or simply enjoyed on its own, this moist meatloaf is sure to bring warmth and comfort to any meal.
The Secret to Moist Meatloaf: The Right Combination of Ingredients
The key to a perfectly moist meatloaf is not just the meat used but the combination of ingredients that create a juicy and tender loaf. Using a blend of ground beef and pork adds layers of flavor and ensures the loaf stays moist throughout the cooking process. Ground pork is slightly fattier than beef, and this additional fat helps prevent the meatloaf from drying out. Adding breadcrumbs and milk provides structure, moisture, and a soft texture to the meat, preventing it from becoming too dense or dry.
One of the most important ingredients in achieving that perfect balance of flavors is the seasoning. A mix of dried herbs like thyme and oregano, along with a touch of cayenne pepper, adds complexity and depth to the meatloaf without overpowering it. Garlic and onions sautéed to a perfect softness infuse the meat with aromatic flavors, providing a savory backdrop for the meat’s natural richness.
The glaze is also a game-changer. A simple combination of ketchup and brown sugar creates a sweet, tangy topping that caramelizes as it bakes, creating a delicious contrast with the savory meat. It’s this glaze that gives the meatloaf its signature flavor and brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony.
How to Ensure a Moist Meatloaf Every Time
While the ingredients are critical to achieving a moist and flavorful meatloaf, technique also plays a significant role. One of the most common mistakes when making meatloaf is overmixing the meat mixture. Overmixing can result in a tough and dense loaf, so it’s essential to combine the ingredients just until everything is incorporated. When adding the wet ingredients to the meat, be sure to fold them in gently. This helps retain the delicate texture and prevents the loaf from becoming too compact.
Another important step is allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking. Once removed from the oven, let the meatloaf sit for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping each slice tender and moist. Cutting into it too early can cause the juices to run out, leaving you with a dry meatloaf.
Additionally, the cooking temperature is important. Baking the meatloaf at a moderate 350°F ensures even cooking without drying out the meat. For the juiciest result, using a meat thermometer is recommended. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for optimal safety and tenderness. The beauty of this moist meatloaf recipe is that it doesn’t require constant monitoring or complicated steps—just a few simple techniques and you’ll have a deliciously juicy result.
Customizing Your Moist Meatloaf
While the recipe provided here is delicious on its own, one of the best things about meatloaf is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the flavor profile to suit your personal taste or experiment with different ingredients. For example, adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can introduce additional layers of flavor and nutrition. Some people also like to mix in grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a cheesy twist.
If you’re looking to make the dish spicier, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce or incorporating finely chopped jalapeños or chili flakes into the meat mixture. For those who prefer a more smoky flavor, adding a bit of smoked paprika or even some crumbled bacon can take the meatloaf to the next level.
For a healthier alternative, you can substitute lean turkey or chicken for the beef and pork. While the texture will be slightly different, the end result can still be delicious and just as moist, especially when paired with the right seasonings and moisture-retaining ingredients like breadcrumbs and milk. If you’re avoiding dairy, try substituting the milk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, and swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free options.
Serving Ideas and Side Dishes to Pair with Moist Meatloaf
One of the great things about meatloaf is how versatile it is when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special family gathering, there are plenty of side dishes that pair beautifully with meatloaf.
Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes. The creamy texture and buttery flavor are the perfect accompaniment to the savory meatloaf. For a twist, try adding garlic or horseradish to the mashed potatoes to enhance the flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes make a hearty and nutritious side dish. The natural sweetness of the roasted veggies contrasts nicely with the savory richness of the meatloaf.
Green Beans or Steamed Asparagus: For a lighter option, consider serving your meatloaf with steamed green beans or asparagus. The slight crunch and freshness of these vegetables balance the richness of the meatloaf, adding a refreshing contrast.
Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the heaviness of the meatloaf. You can also add a bit of sweetness by incorporating fruits like apple slices or dried cranberries into your salad.
Mac and Cheese: For a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone, serve your meatloaf with a side of creamy mac and cheese. The cheesy, indulgent pasta complements the meaty loaf perfectly.
Meatloaf Leftovers: Ideas for Reimagining Your Meal
One of the best things about making meatloaf is the leftovers. Meatloaf holds up well in the fridge and can be repurposed into several delicious meals the following day. Here are a few ideas for leftover meatloaf:
Meatloaf Sandwich: Simply slice the meatloaf and place it on a sandwich bun with some ketchup or mustard for a quick and satisfying lunch. Add some fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles for extra flavor.
Meatloaf Skillet: Chop up your leftover meatloaf and sauté it with some diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty breakfast or brunch dish.
Meatloaf Bolognese: Turn your meatloaf into a rich Bolognese sauce by breaking it up and simmering it with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs. Serve it over pasta for a comforting, Italian-inspired meal.
Meatloaf Tacos: Crumble the leftover meatloaf into a taco shell and top with your favorite taco fillings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. It’s a creative and tasty way to enjoy your leftovers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this moist meatloaf recipe is the epitome of comfort food. Its perfect combination of ground beef and pork, seasoned with a medley of herbs and spices, creates a flavorful and juicy loaf that’s sure to satisfy. With the added touch of a sweet ketchup glaze, each bite is a comforting, savory delight. Whether served with traditional sides like mashed potatoes or more adventurous options like roasted vegetables, this moist meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients and customize it to suit your preferences. With just a few simple steps and some minor adjustments, you can create a delicious and moist meatloaf that will impress your family and guests. Plus, with the opportunity to turn leftovers into new meals, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and practical. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this moist meatloaf is sure to become a beloved dish in your recipe repertoire.