There’s nothing quite like a classic meatloaf to bring comfort and nostalgia to your dinner table. Our all beef meatloaf recipe promises a hearty, flavorful, and utterly satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this meatloaf is easy to prepare yet tastes gourmet.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of ketchup
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Knife and chopping board
How to Make All Beef Meatloaf Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring a proper, even temperature is crucial to cooking the meatloaf thoroughly without overcooking the exterior. While waiting for the oven to reach the desired temperature, proceed with preparing your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. These aromatic ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add moisture to the meatloaf. Then, add the breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk, mixing well to integrate all components thoroughly. The breadcrumbs absorb the milk and help bind the mixture, ensuring it holds its shape.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Now, it’s time to add depth to your meatloaf with a touch of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Also, sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. These seasonings will permeate the meat, giving it a robust flavor that accentuates its natural richness. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until well incorporated.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
On a lined baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a loaf. Ensure the loaf is uniform in thickness to guarantee even cooking. You can also use a loaf pan lined with parchment paper if you prefer a more structured shape or want to make serving easier.
Step 5: Cook the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). This ensures the meatloaf is cooked safely while remaining juicy and tender. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
How to Serve All Beef Meatloaf
Serve slices of your all beef meatloaf with mashed potatoes, a side of green beans, or a fresh garden salad. The rich, savory flavors are complemented beautifully by vegetables and potatoes, creating a balanced and fulfilling meal everyone will love.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a sure success, keep your meatloaf moist by ensuring an even blend of meat, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Additionally, avoid overmixing, as this can result in a denser texture. Lastly, let your meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, enhancing both flavor and moistness.
Packed Protein Powerhouse: High Protein Version
For those looking to boost their protein intake, consider adding a handful of shredded cheese or crumbled tofu into the mixture. These additions not only increase the protein count but also infuse extra flavor and complexity into your meatloaf. It’s the perfect way to fuel your body post-workout or whenever you need a hearty energy boost.
Low Carb Delight: All Beef Meatloaf Made Keto-Friendly!
If you’re watching your carb intake, swap out traditional breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour. These changes keep it low-carb while still binding the meatloaf effectively. You can also add more veggies, like chopped spinach or zucchini, to maintain moisture and alter the texture deliciously.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter meatloaf.
- How can I make my meatloaf spicy? You can add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture to kick up the heat.
- What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce? You can substitute with soy sauce or omit it entirely for a different flavor profile.
- Can I prepare the meatloaf in advance? Yes, you can prepare and shape the loaf, then refrigerate it overnight before cooking.
- Is it necessary to use milk? Using milk helps keep the meatloaf moist, but you can use water or beef broth as alternatives.
The Takeaway: Why This All Beef Meatloaf is a Must-Try!
This all beef meatloaf is a timeless classic, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your dining experience. The simplicity of its ingredients, combined with its bold flavor, makes it a versatile dish that adapts to any dietary needs while retaining its comforting allure. We invite you to enjoy creating — and eating — this delightful dish. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments and spread the joy of meatloaf by sharing this recipe with friends and family!
Hearty All-Beef Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- breadcrumbs
- onion
- eggs
- milk
- ketchup
- Worcestershire sauce
- Dijon mustard
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and ready your ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, and garlic. Add breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk, mixing well.
- Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, then mix until incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Rest before slicing.