Homemade Meatloaf: A Family Favorite

Traditional Homemade Meatloaf: A Family Favorite

Step into a world of comforting flavors with this traditional homemade meatloaf recipe. Passed down through generations, this dish is a testament to family tradition and culinary love. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner or hosting a large gathering, this meatloaf—with its juicy texture and perfectly balanced blend of savory spices and sweet glaze—is sure to delight every palate.

The Secret to the Perfect Meatloaf

Achieving meatloaf perfection is all about these three essential tips:

• Soak the Breadcrumbs: Combine your breadcrumbs with eggs and milk to create a moist, tender texture.

• Mix Gently: Combine all ingredients carefully before adding the meat to prevent over-mixing, which can lead to a tough loaf.

• Double Glaze: Apply a delicious glaze both before baking and midway through for a rich, caramelized finish. We especially love using Jammy Roasted Ketchup for this step!

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

1. Meat: Grass-fed ground beef (or a mix with ground pork/ground turkey for variation)

2. Binders: Toasted breadcrumbs (or substitute with quick-cooking oats/gluten-free breadcrumbs), eggs, milk (or broth)

3. Flavor Enhancers: Tomato paste (or ketchup), Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or brown sugar if substituting tomato paste)

4. Seasonings: Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, dried oregano, dried marjoram

5. Aromatics: Finely grated yellow onion and garlic clove (use raw to tenderize and infuse flavor)

6. Herbs: Fresh parsley (mixed in and used as garnish)

For the Glaze:

Jammy Roasted Ketchup or a homemade mix of:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup

• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

• Sriracha (optional, for a spicy kick)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Allow your ground meat to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to ensure even mixing.

2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
   In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with eggs and milk. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes, allowing the crumbs to absorb the liquids.

3. Add Flavorings:
   Stir in kosher salt, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion and garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, dried oregano, dried marjoram, and fresh parsley. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

4. Combine with Meat:
Gently fold in the ground meat using your hands until just combined. Form the mixture into a free-form loaf shape (approximately 8 x 4 inches) on a parchment-lined baking dish. Leaving space around the edges promotes even browning and caramelization.

5. Glaze & Bake:

• First Glaze: Spread half of your glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf.

• Bake: Place in the oven and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.

• Second Glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven, apply the remaining glaze, and increase the oven temperature to 400°F. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 155-160°F. For extra caramelization, broil for a few minutes at the end.

6. Rest & Serve:
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This crucial step locks in the juices and prevents crumbling. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips & Serving Suggestions

• Don't Skip the Grated Onions & Garlic: Their natural enzymes help tenderize the meat, infusing a deep, savory flavor.

• Avoid Over-Mixing: Handle the meat mixture gently to keep it light and juicy.

• Presentation: Use a baking dish with room around the loaf to promote crispy, caramelized edges.

• Side Ideas: Pair your meatloaf with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or a medley of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or glazed carrots.

Storage & Meal Prep

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the meatloaf a day in advance, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge unglazed. Simply bake as instructed the following day.

Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia of a home-cooked meal with this exceptional meatloaf recipe—a true celebration of tradition and flavor!