Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe

The Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe is your go-to for a hearty, classic meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. This recipe is incredibly useful for weeknight dinners when you need something satisfying and family-friendly that comes together with minimal fuss.

Key Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (85% lean or 90% lean recommended)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons ketchup, plus more for topping
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Glaze:
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

How to Make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe is remarkably easy to prepare, delivering a delightfully moist and flavorful meatloaf that’s a true crowd-pleaser. Its comforting taste and tender texture, perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy glaze, make it an ideal weeknight meal. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a baking time of 50-60 minutes, it’s a satisfying dinner that’s ready without too much effort.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or a loaf pan.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, milk, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk them together until well incorporated.

Add Dry Ingredients and Seasonings: Add the panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped yellow onion, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the wet ingredients. Stir to combine.

Incorporate the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.

Form the Meatloaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press it into the loaf pan, ensuring it has a uniform shape.

Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This glaze will add a wonderful sweet and tangy finish.

Apply the Glaze: Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.

Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes.

Add Remaining Glaze: After 40 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.

Finish Baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 10-20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C) and the juices run clear.

Rest the Meatloaf: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

Serve: Slice the rested meatloaf into generous portions and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe

You’ll absolutely adore this Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe for its perfectly tender, incredibly flavorful center that never disappoints, all thanks to the simple yet effective combination of high-quality ground beef and simple seasonings. It’s a fantastic budget-friendly choice, offering a hearty and satisfying meal without breaking the bank, especially when compared to dining out or purchasing pre-made options. The star of the show is undoubtedly the luscious, slightly sweet and tangy glaze, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding an irresistible touch of depth and personality that elevates this classic dish.

This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s a warm hug in food form, reminiscent of home-cooked meals and cherished family gatherings. Unlike some modern recipes that can be overly complex, this traditional approach delivers pure, unadulterated comfort that’s both easy to master and incredibly enjoyable. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the simple joy of this classic dish. We know you’ll fall in love with it as much as we have!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:
Allow the cooked meatloaf to cool completely before storing. You can store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s properly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatloaf will remain fresh for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:
To reheat refrigerated meatloaf, you have a few options. For individual slices, the microwave is a quick method; heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. For a whole or larger portion, reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat as usual.

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Dinner Recipe is a testament to the power of simple, honest ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a recipe that’s meant to be shared, bringing warmth and comfort to any meal. We encourage you to give it a try and create your own delicious memories around this timeless classic.