Classic Meatloaf with Bread Crumbs

Meatloaf is a timeless classic, and this recipe takes it to the next level with the addition of panko breadcrumbs and a delectable glaze. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled
  • 2 pounds ground beef

For the glaze, you’ll need:

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard

Directions:

Now, let’s walk through the steps to create this savory delight:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your meatloaf is prepared.
  2. Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine all the glaze ingredients until smooth. Set this aside for later use.
  3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and finely chopped onion. Ensure the breadcrumbs are thoroughly moistened by the onion.
  4. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the crushed garlic, eggs, Italian seasonings, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, chopped parsley, and crumbled beef bouillon cubes to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything together until well combined.
  5. Form the Loaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on top of two slices of bread in a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This helps absorb excess fat during baking.
  6. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches a minimum of 160°F (70°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
  7. Glaze and Finish: Once baked, drain any excess fat from the pan. Pour the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the meatloaf and serve it with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Each bite will be bursting with flavor and satisfaction.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Calories: 350 per serving
  • Servings: 8 servings

Serving and Storage Tips:

Once your classic meatloaf with breadcrumbs is cooked to perfection, here are some serving and storage tips to ensure you make the most of this delicious dish:

  1. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve slices of meatloaf with a generous dollop of extra glaze on top for added flavor.
    • Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
    • For a casual gathering, consider serving meatloaf slices as sliders on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
  2. Storage Guidelines:
    • Allow any leftover meatloaf to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil.
    • Refrigerate leftover meatloaf within 2 hours of cooking to maintain its freshness and flavor.
    • Stored properly in the refrigerator, leftover meatloaf can last for up to 3-4 days.
    • Alternatively, you can freeze cooked meatloaf for longer-term storage. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatloaf can last for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Reheating Instructions:
    • To reheat refrigerated meatloaf, simply place individual slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in the microwave until warmed through.
    • For frozen meatloaf, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Once thawed, you can reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated to your desired temperature.
    • For a crispier texture, consider reheating slices of meatloaf in a skillet with a drizzle of oil over medium heat until golden brown on the edges.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your classic meatloaf with breadcrumbs time and time again, whether fresh from the oven or reheated to perfection.

Variations :

While the classic meatloaf recipe with breadcrumbs and savory glaze is undeniably delicious, there are endless possibilities for customization to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some exciting variations to consider:

  1. Turkey Meatloaf: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey to create a lighter version of this comfort food classic. Turkey meatloaf offers a leaner option without compromising on flavor.
  2. Vegetarian Twist: For a meat-free alternative, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, quinoa, or a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms and vegetables. Add extra seasonings and binding agents such as flaxseed meal or breadcrumbs to hold the loaf together.
  3. Cheesy Delight: Incorporate your favorite cheese into the meatloaf mixture for an extra indulgent twist. Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese can add richness and gooey texture to every bite.
  4. Spice It Up: Infuse your meatloaf with bold flavors by adding diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to the mixture. Adjust the amount of spice according to your preference for a fiery kick.
  5. Nutty Crunch: Enhance the texture of your meatloaf by incorporating chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. The nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to complement the savory elements of the dish.
  6. International Flavors: Experiment with global-inspired seasonings and ingredients to give your meatloaf a unique flair. Try adding soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired twist, or smoked paprika and cumin for a touch of Mediterranean influence.
  7. Stuffed Meatloaf: Get creative by stuffing your meatloaf with savory fillings such as spinach and feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and pesto, or roasted red peppers and goat cheese. Simply shape the meatloaf mixture around the filling before baking for a surprise burst of flavor in every slice.
  8. Mini Meatloaf Muffins: Transform your classic meatloaf into adorable individual servings by baking them in a muffin tin. These mini meatloaf muffins are perfect for portion control and make for a fun appetizer or lunchbox treat.
  9. Gluten-Free Option: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients used are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  10. Sweet and Savory Blend: Experiment with sweet additions like dried cranberries, applesauce, or diced pineapple to balance the savory flavors of the meatloaf. These fruity accents add a hint of sweetness that complements the rich glaze beautifully.

FAQs:

  1. Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can mix the meatloaf ingredients together and store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, making for an even more delicious meatloaf.
  2. Can I use different meats for this recipe?
    • Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with ground pork, veal, chicken, or even a combination of meats for a unique flavor profile.
  3. What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
    • If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even finely crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
  4. How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
    • The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
  5. Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
    • Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf for future meals. Wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • Certainly! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients used are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  7. How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
    • Adding ingredients like diced vegetables, eggs, or even a small amount of tomato sauce can help keep the meatloaf moist. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can lead to a denser, drier loaf.
  8. Can I make individual servings of meatloaf instead of one large loaf?
    • Yes, you can shape the meatloaf mixture into individual portions and bake them on a baking sheet or in a muffin tin for convenient, portion-controlled servings.

With its hearty texture and irresistible flavor, this classic meatloaf with breadcrumbs and savory glaze is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a culinary masterpiece. Bon appétit!

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Classic Meatloaf with Bread Crumbs


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

Description

Meatloaf is a timeless classic, and this recipe takes it to the next level with the addition of panko breadcrumbs and a delectable glaze. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece.


Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled
  • 2 pounds ground beef

For the glaze, you’ll need:

 

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard

Instructions

Now, let’s walk through the steps to create this savory delight:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your meatloaf is prepared.
  2. Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine all the glaze ingredients until smooth. Set this aside for later use.
  3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and finely chopped onion. Ensure the breadcrumbs are thoroughly moistened by the onion.
  4. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the crushed garlic, eggs, Italian seasonings, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, chopped parsley, and crumbled beef bouillon cubes to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything together until well combined.
  5. Form the Loaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on top of two slices of bread in a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This helps absorb excess fat during baking.
  6. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches a minimum of 160°F (70°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
  7. Glaze and Finish: Once baked, drain any excess fat from the pan. Pour the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the meatloaf and serve it with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Each bite will be bursting with flavor and satisfaction.

Nutritional Information:

 

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Calories: 350 per serving
  • Servings: 8 servings

Notes

Once your classic meatloaf with breadcrumbs is cooked to perfection, here are some serving and storage tips to ensure you make the most of this delicious dish:

  1. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve slices of meatloaf with a generous dollop of extra glaze on top for added flavor.
    • Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
    • For a casual gathering, consider serving meatloaf slices as sliders on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
  2. Storage Guidelines:
    • Allow any leftover meatloaf to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil.
    • Refrigerate leftover meatloaf within 2 hours of cooking to maintain its freshness and flavor.
    • Stored properly in the refrigerator, leftover meatloaf can last for up to 3-4 days.
    • Alternatively, you can freeze cooked meatloaf for longer-term storage. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatloaf can last for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Reheating Instructions:
    • To reheat refrigerated meatloaf, simply place individual slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in the microwave until warmed through.
    • For frozen meatloaf, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Once thawed, you can reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated to your desired temperature.
    • For a crispier texture, consider reheating slices of meatloaf in a skillet with a drizzle of oil over medium heat until golden brown on the edges.

 

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your classic meatloaf with breadcrumbs time and time again, whether fresh from the oven or reheated to perfection.