Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe

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Here’s a big, detailed recipe for a meatloaf that truly stands out—crafted with all the depth you requested: introduction, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, methods, history, benefits, formation, conclusion, lovers, and nutrition.

🍖 Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe

📖 Introduction

Meatloaf is one of those timeless comfort foods that can transform a simple weeknight dinner into a hearty, memorable feast. For many, it’s tied to nostalgic family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings with friends. While meatloaf has a reputation for being plain, when prepared with care, it becomes tender, juicy, flavorful, and—best of all—feeds a crowd. This recipe is special because it elevates the humble loaf into a dish worth sharing at the table.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
  • ½ pound ground pork (optional, adds richness)
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
  • 1 cup milk (to soak the breadcrumbs)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan

🥘 Instructions & Methods

  1. Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
  2. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until softened. This ensures your meatloaf is moist and tender.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, cook onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Let them cool slightly before adding to the meat mixture.
  4. Mix Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, onion-garlic mixture, Parmesan, Worcestershire, ketchup, Dijon, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with clean hands—overmixing will make it tough.
  5. Shape the Loaf: Transfer mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Form into a loaf shape, about 9×5 inches.
  6. Add Glaze: Mix ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Brush half over the loaf before baking.
  7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake another 15–20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  8. Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

🏺 History

Meatloaf dates back to ancient Rome, where a mixture of meats, bread, and spices was formed into a loaf and baked. It became popular in America during the Great Depression, when stretching meat with bread and fillers was economical. Over time, it evolved into a beloved comfort food, with each family putting their own twist on the recipe.

💪 Benefits

  • Protein-packed: Great source of lean protein.
  • Customizable: Easily adjusted with veggies, cheeses, or different glazes.
  • Crowd-pleasing: Makes enough to feed a family or group.
  • Leftover-friendly: Tastes even better the next day in sandwiches.

🏗️ Formation

The “formation” of meatloaf is all about balance:

  • Base (Meat) provides richness and structure.
  • Binders (Breadcrumbs + Eggs) hold everything together.
  • Moisture (Milk + Onions) prevents dryness.
  • Flavor Boosters (Worcestershire, spices, ketchup) make it memorable.
  • Glaze seals in flavor and creates a glossy finish.

❤️ Lovers

This recipe is loved by:

  • Families looking for a hearty dinner.
  • Neighbors & friends when you share at gatherings.
  • Kids who adore the sweet glaze.
  • Adults who enjoy it with mashed potatoes and gravy.

🍽️ Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 8 servings)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: 23g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 540mg

🌟 Conclusion

This meatloaf isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. It brings people together at the table, fills the home with cozy aromas, and delivers flavor in every bite. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or simply sliced into a sandwich the next day, this recipe proves that meatloaf can be unforgettable.

✨ Would you like me to also make a variation section (like Italian-style, BBQ-style, or stuffed cheese meatloaf) so you can surprise your guests with twists on the classic?

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