Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe

An Old Fashioned Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that’s hearty and flavorful. Here’s a simple recipe you can follow:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus more for topping)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Mixture:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you choose to add.
• Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as it can make the meatloaf tough.

1. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Add Topping: Spread a layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
4. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape.

Serve it with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

You can definitely experiment with different seasonings in your meatloaf. Here are some ideas to enhance the flavor:

1. Herbs: Add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley for a fresh taste.
2. Spices: Try adding paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
3. Mustard: A tablespoon of Dijon or yellow mustard can add a nice tang.
4. Cheese: Mixing in shredded cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, adds richness.
5. Hot Sauce: For a kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
6. Soy Sauce: A splash can deepen the umami flavor.

Feel free to mix and match these seasonings to suit your taste! Since you enjoy experimenting with flavors, it could be fun to try various combinations.

Here are some unique seasoning combinations you might enjoy trying:

1. Chili Lime: Combine chili powder, lime zest, and a pinch of salt for a zesty kick. This will add a fresh and spicy flavor.
2. Mediterranean Blend: Mix dried oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and a bit of lemon zest for a vibrant, herby taste.
3. Sweet and Smoky: Use smoked paprika, brown sugar, and a touch of cayenne for a sweet and smoky profile.
4. Curry Spice: Incorporate curry powder, cumin, and coriander for an exotic twist.
5. Italian Herb Mix: Blend basil, rosemary, and fennel seeds for a classic Italian flavor.
6. Teriyaki Glaze: Combine soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a bit of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired meatloaf.

These combinations can really elevate your meatloaf and make it a fun culinary experience!