Savor the Sunday Tradition: Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Transport yourself back to cozy Sunday dinners with our timeless Sunday Meatloaf recipe. This comforting dish brings together the familiar flavors of ground beef, onions, and savory seasonings, all baked to perfection and topped with a tangy glaze. Whether you’re reminiscing about family gatherings or creating new traditions, this classic meatloaf is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of homemade comfort food with our delicious Sunday Meatloaf!
Ingredients
Meat:
- 2 lbs Ground beef
Produce:
- 1 tsp Onion, granulated
Condiments:
- 2 tbsp Steak sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp Ketchup
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
Bread & Baked Goods:
- 1/4 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, granulated onion, steak sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, black pepper, brown sugar, kosher salt, and Italian-style bread crumbs. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf shape, ensuring it’s evenly packed and compacted.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together additional ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze for the meatloaf.
- Glaze Meatloaf: Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, using a spatula or the back of a spoon to coat the entire surface.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Serve slices of meatloaf with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Vegetables: For added flavor and nutrition, consider mixing finely diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery into the meat mixture before shaping the loaf.
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: For a gooey surprise in every bite, create a cheese-stuffed meatloaf by placing slices of cheese in the center of the meat mixture before shaping into a loaf.
- Alternative Glazes: Experiment with different glazes to customize the flavor of your meatloaf. Try a barbecue sauce glaze, a honey mustard glaze, or a balsamic glaze for a unique twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, consider the following modifications:
- Replace Bread Crumbs: Substitute the Italian-style bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative that still provides texture and binding.
- Sugar-Free Glaze: Use sugar-free ketchup and a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of brown sugar to create a keto-friendly glaze for the meatloaf.
- Leaner Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or a mixture of lean ground beef and ground pork to reduce the fat content of the meatloaf while still maintaining flavor and moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just be mindful of differences in cooking times and adjust as needed.
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the meatloaf ahead of time and reheat slices as needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover meatloaf? A: Yes, meatloaf freezes very well. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
In conclusion, Sunday Meatloaf is a timeless dish that’s perfect for gathering loved ones around the table and sharing stories of days gone by. With its savory flavors, moist texture, and comforting aroma, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday afternoon or as a weekday dinner, this meatloaf is guaranteed to satisfy cravings and warm hearts. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and prepare to savor the simple pleasures of homemade comfort food with our delicious Sunday Meatloaf!