Classic Southern Meatloaf

Classic Southern Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.

This dish is savory, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. With a minimal ingredient list and straightforward preparation, you can create a delicious meatloaf that will impress family and friends alike.

Why Make This Recipe

Making this Classic Southern Meatloaf is a great way to enjoy a meal that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and suitable for meal prep. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners or whenever you crave a comforting meal. Plus, leftovers can be transformed into tasty sandwiches or used in other recipes!

How To Make Classic Southern Meatloaf

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)

3-Step Directions:

1. Preheat & Mix: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until evenly blended.
2. Shape & Glaze: Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and brown sugar, then spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
3. Bake & Serve: Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to cook, making a total of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It serves 6 people, and each serving has approximately 350 calories, with around 24g of protein and 20g of fat.

How To Serve Classic Southern Meatloaf

Serve your Classic Southern Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw for a complete meal. For an extra touch, add some additional ketchup or gravy on top!

How To Store Classic Southern Meatloaf

To store leftover meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips To Make Classic Southern Meatloaf

• Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• For a moist meatloaf, don’t overmix the ingredients.
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the taste.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

Classic Southern Meatloaf is a great source of protein, thanks to the ground beef, which supports muscle health and repair. The addition of onions and garlic not only enhances flavor but also provides vitamins and antioxidants. By using whole grain breadcrumbs and incorporating some vegetables, this meatloaf can be part of a balanced diet that contributes to overall well-being.

Variation

Feel free to customize your meatloaf! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or add cheese for extra richness. For a smoky flavor, try adding chopped smoked bacon to the mixture!

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner meatloaf.

   
   

2. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
   You can use crushed crackers, oats, or ground flaxseed as a binder.

   
   

3. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
   Absolutely! Finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can add flavor and nutrition.

   
   

4. How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
   Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

   
   

5. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
   Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf and store it in the refrigerator before baking, or even freeze it unbaked.

   
   

6. What temperature should the meatloaf be cooked to?
   The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.

   
   

7. How do I reheat the meatloaf?
   Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover it to prevent drying out.

   
   

Classic Southern Meatloaf

A savory and hearty meatloaf that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table, perfect for comforting meals any time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds ground beef Lean ground beef is recommended for a healthier option.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Use whole grain breadcrumbs for added nutrition.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor and provides vitamins and antioxidants.
• 0.25 cup milk Helps to keep the meatloaf moist.
• 0.25 cup ketchup
• 1 large egg Acts as a binder for the meatloaf.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme

Topping

• 0.5 cup ketchup For topping.
• 0.25 cup brown sugar Adds sweetness to the topping.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until evenly blended.

Shaping and Glazing

1. Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and brown sugar, then spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Baking

1. Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
2. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw. Add extra ketchup or gravy for an additional touch. Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.