Best Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

This best meatloaf recipe is a comforting classic that combines tender ground beef and pork with savory herbs and a cheesy, flavorful twist. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, it’s perfect for a family dinner that feels both hearty and special.

Ingredients

• 2 whole large eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 3 slices bread (torn into pieces)
• 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
• 1/2 cup carrot (grated)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350º F.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk and torn bread pieces, then let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid.
3. Step 3: Stir in the chopped onion, grated carrot, shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, salt, thyme, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Step 4: Add the ground beef and ground pork to the bowl, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Step 5: Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap, then press the meat mixture into the pan to shape it into a loaf.
6. Step 6: Carefully turn the loaf pan over onto a foil-lined baking sheet and remove the plastic wrap from the meatloaf.
7. Step 7: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
8. Step 8: While the meatloaf bakes, combine the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to make the topping. Spoon this glaze over the meatloaf, then bake for an additional 30 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink. Halfway through this time, baste the meatloaf with more topping.
9. Step 9: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, consider soaking the bread in milk longer or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
• Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for additional texture and nutrition.
• Use a mix of ground turkey and pork for a lighter version while maintaining juiciness.
• If you prefer a sweeter topping, increase the brown sugar slightly or add a touch of honey.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make meatloaf without ground pork?

Yes, you can use all ground beef or substitute ground turkey or chicken, although pork adds extra moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160º F and the juices run clear with no pink in the center. The topping should also be nicely caramelized after baking.

Best Meatloaf Recipe

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4.4 from 66 reviews

This Best Meatloaf recipe delivers a classic, savory comfort food experience made with a blend of ground beef and pork, enriched with fresh vegetables, cheddar cheese, and a flavorful herb and spice mix. Topped with a sweet and tangy brown sugar and tomato sauce glaze, this meatloaf is baked to juicy perfection and offers a hearty meal for family dinners or special occasions.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf Mixture

• 2 whole large eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 3 slices bread, torn into pieces
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrot, grated
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork

Topping

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf, ensuring the oven reaches the correct temperature.
2. Prepare Egg and Bread Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the two whole eggs, then add the milk and torn bread pieces. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes so the bread can absorb all the liquid, creating a moist base for the meatloaf.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: To the egg and bread mixture, add the chopped onion, grated carrot, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped fresh parsley, salt, dried thyme, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors.
4. Incorporate Ground Meat: Add the lean ground beef and ground pork into the mixture. Combine everything well, mixing gently but thoroughly to ensure even consistency without overworking the meat.
5. Shape Meatloaf in Pan: Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap for easy removal later. Place the meat mixture into the pan, pressing down gently to shape it evenly into the loaf form.
6. Invert Meatloaf onto Baking Sheet: Carefully turn the loaf pan over onto a foil-lined baking sheet, then remove the plastic wrap. This step helps create a nice crust on the meatloaf and allows even cooking.
7. Bake First Phase: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes uncovered, allowing the bottom and sides to brown and cook through.
8. Prepare and Add Topping: While the meatloaf bakes, combine the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to create the topping glaze. After the initial 45 minutes of baking, spoon this topping over the meatloaf evenly. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, basting with the topping again after 15 minutes to build layers of flavor and keep the meatloaf moist.
9. Rest Before Serving: Once fully cooked and browned, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and easier-to-slice meatloaf.

Notes

• Using both ground beef and pork helps keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
• Letting the bread soak in the egg and milk mixture prevents dryness in the final meatloaf.
• Resting the meatloaf after baking makes slicing easier and improves texture.
• Adjust spices and herbs according to your taste preferences.
• For a lower-fat version, use leaner meats and reduce the amount of cheese.

Keywords: meatloaf, ground beef, ground pork, classic meatloaf, baked meatloaf, comfort food, cheddar cheese meatloaf