What is meatloaf?
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food made from ground meat, usually beef, although it can also include turkey or a combination of meats.
The meat is mixed with other ingredients such as breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to bind it together and enhance its flavor. The mixture is then shaped into a loaf and baked in the oven.
Key Features of Meatloaf
Shape: As the name suggests, it is usually made in the shape of a loaf, similar to a loaf of bread.
Glaze: A hallmark of many meatloaf recipes is a tangy glaze made from ketchup, barbecue sauce, or tomato paste, often mixed with brown sugar or mustard, spread on top before baking.
Customization: Meatloaf is extremely versatile, with added vegetables, cheese, or spices to suit different tastes.
Cultural Roots
Meatloaf has been a staple in American and European cuisine, dating back to ancient Roman times. It became especially popular during times of economic hardship, such as the Great Depression, because it allowed households to expand their meat supply by mixing it with fillers such as breadcrumbs or oats.
Serving Suggestions
Meatloaf is often served with mashed potatoes, gravy, roasted vegetables, or green beans. Leftovers are a great value and can be remade into sandwiches or reheated for a quick meal.
Whether it’s an old family recipe or a modern twist with sophisticated ingredients, meatloaf remains a beloved dish for its hearty, flavorful appeal.
Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe
This recipe makes a moist and flavorful meatloaf with a tangy glaze, perfect for comfort food.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
1 ½ pounds (680 grams) ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1 ½ cup milk
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
For the glaze:
¼ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or baking sheet.
Prepare the meat mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Gently mix with your hands or a wooden spoon until well combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf soft.
Shape the meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
Prepare the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake the meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Apply the remaining glaze
About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, spread the remaining glaze on top and continue baking.
Rest and serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of your choice.
Tips
Add a twist
Mix in shredded cheese or finely chopped vegetables for more flavor.
Leftovers
Use leftover slices for sandwiches or reheat for a quick meal.
Storage
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy this classic, family favorite!
What is the difference between meatloaf and frosted meatloaf?
The main difference between meatloaf and frosted meatloaf is in their presentation and preparation method:
Traditional meatloaf
Description:
A baked loaf made with ground meat (beef, turkey, or a mix), breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices.
Often topped with a glaze (ketchup, barbecue sauce, or tomato paste) that caramelizes during baking.
Presentation:
Simple and rustic.
Serve sliced and with sides such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or gravy.
Focus:
The flavor and texture of meatloaf.
Frosted Meatloaf
Description
Starts with the same base meatloaf recipe.
Once baked, it is covered with a layer of mashed potatoes (“frosting”).
It may be piped for a decorative appearance and baked briefly to brown the potato topping.
Presentation
Resembles a frosted cake, making it more visually appealing and festive.
It is ideal for special occasions or creative dinners.
Focus
Combines the flavors of meatloaf and mashed potatoes in a single dish.
Emphasis on both flavor and aesthetics.
Why do people love frosted meatloaf?
Presentation
Its cake-like appearance makes it fun and festive for family dinners or special occasions.
Taste