Meatloaf is a popular dish in the United States that has been enjoyed by Americans for generations. After many attempts, we’ve come up with one of the best meatloaf recipes we’ve ever had, and one that you’re sure to love also. To understand the importance of the dish, however, as we often do, we’ll give you some background on how meatloaf became important as a staple food to cook in the home.

This comfort food is a mixture of ground meat, bread crumbs, and other ingredients, baked into a loaf shape. The history of meatloaf can be traced back to ancient Rome, where a similar dish was made using ground meat and other ingredients. Its popularity has carried through centuries, and today is a hit at home as well as in local diners throughout America.

The Roman meatloaf was known as patina, and it was made with chopped meat, pine nuts, and other ingredients. This dish was popular among the wealthy, and it was served as a main course at feasts and banquets. The recipe for patina was passed down through the centuries, and it eventually made its way to Europe.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, meatloaf was a popular dish in Europe, especially in Germany and Scandinavia. The German meatloaf, known as Hackbraten, was made with ground beef or pork, bread crumbs, onions, and spices. The Scandinavian version of meatloaf, known as Frikadeller, was made with ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, and milk. Both versions of meatloaf were served as a main course, and they were often accompanied by vegetables or potatoes.

Meatloaf arrived in the United States with European immigrants in the 19th century. German immigrants brought their version of meatloaf to the United States, and it quickly became popular in the Midwest. The American version of meatloaf was made with ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, and ketchup or tomato sauce. This version of meatloaf was simple and easy to make, and it quickly became a favorite among American families.

During the Great Depression, meatloaf became even more popular because it was a cheap and filling meal. The recipe for meatloaf was often stretched with other ingredients like oats, cornmeal, or leftover vegetables. Meatloaf became a staple in American homes, and it was often served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or other vegetables.

During World War II, meatloaf became even more important as a source of protein for American soldiers. Meatloaf was served in mess halls and on troop ships, and soldiers often wrote home asking for the recipe. After the war, meatloaf remained popular in the United States, and it became a favorite among working-class families.

In the 1950s and 1960s, meatloaf was often served as a part of a meat-and-potatoes dinner. It was often accompanied by mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, and a salad. In the 1970s, meatloaf began to evolve, and chefs started experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. Some chefs added vegetables like carrots or celery to the meatloaf, while others added spices or hot sauce.

Today, meatloaf is still a popular dish in the United States, and it continues to evolve. Many people have their own family recipe for meatloaf, and there are countless variations of the dish. Some people prefer a classic meatloaf recipe, while others like to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. We think you’ll agree that this is a truly great recipe.

What Makes This Recipe So Great?

The beauty of this meatloaf recipe, and what makes it the best ever, lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust as you see fit, but everything is there to make a great meatloaf, so long as you don’t experiment too much! There are a few things you absolutely have to have in a great meatloaf, and we’ve taken the time to list out a few of those. Truly, there’s nothing complicated about it – it’s just about using the right ingredients.

The Meat: The first key element of a great meatloaf recipe is the meat. The most popular meats used in meatloaf are ground beef, pork, and veal. Some recipes may use a combination of these meats, but the key is to choose a meat with a good fat content. Fat is important as it adds moisture to the meatloaf, and keeps it from becoming dry and crumbly. Lean meats like ground turkey or chicken may be used, but they often result in a drier meatloaf. For the sake of making a great meatloaf, use high-fat beef to keep it nice and juicy.

The Seasonings: The next element that makes a great meatloaf recipe is the seasoning. A good meatloaf recipe will have a balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Some recipes may also use herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to add additional flavor. The key is to use enough seasoning to flavor the meatloaf, but not so much that it overpowers the dish.

The Fillers: Another important element of a great meatloaf recipe is the fillers. Fillers are added to the meat mixture to help bind it together and add texture. Common fillers include breadcrumbs, oatmeal, and cracker crumbs. Eggs are also used as a binder, and they help to hold the meatloaf together. Fillers can also add additional flavor to the meatloaf. For example, using Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs can add a delicious Italian flavor to the meatloaf.

The Sauce: The sauce is the final element that makes a great meatloaf recipe. A good sauce can add moisture to the meatloaf and enhance the flavor. Common sauces include ketchup, tomato sauce, and barbecue sauce. Some recipes may also use a glaze made with brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. The key is to choose a sauce that complements the flavors of the meatloaf.

Cooking Method: The cooking method is also an important factor in making a great meatloaf. Meatloaf is traditionally baked in the oven, but it can also be cooked in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. Baking the meatloaf in the oven is the most common method, and it allows the meatloaf to cook evenly and develop a crispy crust. Slow cooking the meatloaf can result in a very tender and moist meatloaf, but it may not have the same crispy crust as an oven-baked meatloaf. Stovetop cooking is also an option, but it may require more attention to prevent the meatloaf from sticking to the pan.

There are several key elements that make a great meatloaf recipe, but the combination of these is what makes this the best meatloaf recipe I’ve ever seen, or come up with. The meat should have a good fat content to keep the meatloaf moist, while the seasonings should provide a balance of flavors without overpowering the dish. The fillers should help bind the meat together and add texture, while the sauce should complement the flavors of the meatloaf. The cooking method is also important, and the oven is the most common method used. By incorporating these elements into a meatloaf recipe, anyone can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please.

How to Store Leftover Meatloaf

There are a few things to remember about storing meatloaf properly. Firstly, it is important to note that meatloaf should be refrigerated as soon as possible after it has been cooked. Leaving it out at room temperature for an extended period of time can allow bacteria to grow, which can lead to foodborne illness.

When storing leftover meatloaf, there are a few different options to consider. The most common methods are storing it in the refrigerator or freezing it. Let’s take a closer look at each option.

Refrigeration:

If you plan to eat your leftover meatloaf within a few days, storing it in the refrigerator is the best option. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Allow the meatloaf to cool to room temperature. This will help prevent condensation from forming in the container and creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
2. Cut the meatloaf into individual portions. This will help it cool more quickly and also make it easier to reheat later.
3. Place the portions of meatloaf in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Be sure to label the container with the date that the meatloaf was cooked so you can keep track of how long it has been in the refrigerator.
4. Store the meatloaf in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.

Freezing:

If you do not plan to eat your leftover meatloaf within a few days, or if you want to save it for later, freezing is the best option. To freeze leftover meatloaf, follow these steps:

1. Allow the meatloaf to cool to room temperature.
2. Cut the meatloaf into individual portions.
3. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
4. Place the wrapped portions in an airtight container or freezer bag. Again, be sure to label the container with the date that the meatloaf was cooked.
5. Freeze the meatloaf for up to three months.

When you are ready to reheat your leftover meatloaf, there are a few different options to consider. The best method will depend on the quantity of meatloaf you are reheating and the equipment you have available. Here are a few options to consider:

Microwave:

If you are reheating a single portion of meatloaf, the microwave is a quick and easy option. Simply remove the portion from the refrigerator or freezer and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave the meatloaf on high for 1-2 minutes (if refrigerated) or 2-3 minutes (if frozen) until it is heated through.

Oven:

If you are reheating a larger portion of meatloaf, the oven is a good option. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the meatloaf from the refrigerator or freezer and place it in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes (if refrigerated) or 40-50 minutes (if frozen) until the meatloaf is heated through.

Stovetop:

If you prefer not to use the microwave or oven, you can also reheat meatloaf on the stovetop. Place the meatloaf in a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes (if refrigerated) or 10-12 minutes (if frozen) until the meatloaf is heated through.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Mix all the ingredients together using your hands, making sure that everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the meat mixture into a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. Using a spatula or your hands, press the meat down firmly to make sure there are no air pockets.
5. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
7. Optional: You can brush the top of the meatloaf with additional ketchup or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
8. Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite sides.
   

   Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever!

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   Ingredients

     

   • 2 pounds ground beef
   • 1 cup breadcrumbs
   • 2 eggs beaten
   • 1/2 cup milk
   • 1/2 cup ketchup
   • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
   • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
   • 2 teaspoons salt
   • 1 teaspoon black pepper
   • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

   Instructions

    

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
   • Mix all the ingredients together using your hands, making sure that everything is well combined.
   • Transfer the meat mixture into a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. Using a spatula or your hands, press the meat down firmly to make sure there are no air pockets.
   • Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
   • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
   • Optional: You can brush the top of the meatloaf with additional ketchup or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
   • Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite sides.