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Mouth-Watering Meatloaf
Introduction
Mouth-Watering Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Featuring lean ground beef, aromatic seasonings, and a classic ketchup glaze, this meatloaf is simple to make yet rich in taste. Whether served with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or between two slices of bread as leftovers, it’s a timeless favorite that satisfies every time.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Meatloaf traces its roots to Europe, with early versions appearing in Roman cookbooks. It gained widespread popularity in America during the Great Depression as an economical way to stretch meat with fillers like bread and milk. Over the decades, it became a staple of American home cooking, celebrated for its versatility, heartiness, and family appeal. Today, it continues to be a beloved dish, often passed down through generations with unique family twists.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 Tbsp onion, diced
- 2 slices potato bread
- 1/4 cup McArthur milk (or any whole milk)
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp chopped fresh sage
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground mustard
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 1 large Eggland’s egg
- 1/3 cup Heinz ketchup
Optional Additions
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra umami
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper for sweetness and color
- Dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
- Swap potato bread with whole wheat or brioche for variation
- Top with BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky twist
Tips for Success
- Use fresh sage for deeper flavor, but dried can be substituted if needed
- Soak the bread in milk before mixing for a softer, more cohesive texture
- Do not overmix the beef to avoid a dense loaf
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F for doneness
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Combine Beef Base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, and diced onion. - Add Bread
Tear the potato bread into small pieces and mix it into the beef. - Mix in Seasonings & Binder
Add the milk, Worcestershire sauce, sage, salt, ground mustard, pepper, and egg to the bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly until well combined. - Shape & Glaze
Transfer the beef mixture to an ungreased baking pan. Shape into an 8×4-inch loaf. Spread Heinz ketchup evenly over the top as a glaze. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the juices run clear. - Rest & Serve
Let the loaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Remove from the pan and cut into servings. - Enjoy
Serve hot with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad.
Description
This meatloaf is everything a classic should be: juicy on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and infused with the warm, savory flavors of garlic, sage, and Worcestershire. The soft potato bread and milk create a tender texture, while the ketchup glaze gives a nostalgic, tangy finish. It’s a dish that feels like home in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving — yields 6 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 410mg
Nutrition may vary slightly depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion
Mouth-Watering Meatloaf is a dependable classic that delivers flavor, comfort, and simplicity. It’s quick enough for weeknight dinners and hearty enough for Sunday family meals. A crowd-pleaser every time, this recipe brings back the beauty of homemade meals that never go out of style.
Recommendation
Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of green beans or buttered corn. Leftovers can be turned into sandwiches for a quick and satisfying lunch the next day. It’s also freezer-friendly—make two and save one for later!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
- Use leaner ground beef or a mix of ground turkey for reduced fat
- Substitute low-sugar ketchup to cut back on added sugars
- Add grated carrots or zucchini into the mix for a veggie boost
- Serve with a side salad to balance the richness with freshness
- Enjoy mindfully—savor each bite with intention and appreciation
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