Introduction
Meatloaf is one of the most beloved comfort meals in American home cooking. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. This dish combines ground meat with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and eggs, then bakes it until tender and juicy. It’s simple, satisfying, and very customizable.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
Meatloaf traces its origins to European minced-meat dishes from the Middle Ages. When immigrants brought these techniques to the United States, it evolved into the modern meatloaf we know today.
In American culture, meatloaf symbolizes home cooking, thriftiness, and family tradition, especially during the 20th century when households used it to stretch ingredients and reduce food waste.
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Ingredients (with quantities)
For the meatloaf mixture:
1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried parsley
For the glaze:
¼ cup ketchup
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
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Optional Additions
½ cup grated carrots (adds moisture)
½ cup finely chopped bell pepper
½ cup shredded cheese inside the loaf
A pinch of chili flakes
Substitute beef with turkey or a beef-pork blend
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Tips for Success
Don’t overmix the meat—it can make the loaf dense.
Let the cooked meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Use fresh breadcrumbs for extra tenderness.
For even cooking, shape the loaf by hand instead of using a deep pan.
Add a small dish of water in the oven if your oven tends to dry food.
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Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
3. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment and shape into a loaf.
5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half of it over the loaf.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, remove, and spread the remaining glaze.
7. Continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Rest 10 minutes before slicing.
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Description
This classic meatloaf emerges from the oven moist, flavorful, and beautifully glazed with a sweet-tangy topping. The inside is soft, savory, and comforting, with the perfect blend of herbs and seasonings. Each slice holds together while still being tender enough to melt in your mouth.
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Nutritional Information (approx. per serving, 6 servings)
Calories: ~350
Protein: 23 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 5 g
(Values vary depending on substitutions.)
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Conclusion
Classic meatloaf remains one of the simplest yet most comforting dishes you can prepare. It uses everyday ingredients, adapts easily to different tastes, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
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Recommendation
Try experimenting with different spices or vegetables inside the loaf to match your taste. You can also double the recipe and freeze half for easy future meals.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Meatloaf proves that comfort food can be nourishing and balanced. Enjoy it in reasonable portions, pair it with colorful veggies, and appreciate the warmth and tradition that this timeless dish brings to the table.
