You’re about to embark on a culinary journey that honors tradition while embracing a touch of modern flair. This “Classic Family Meatloaf Recipe with Certified Angus Beef” is more than a meal—it’s a tribute to family memories and comforting flavors.

From carefully mixing the ingredients to perfecting a sweet and savory glaze, each step is designed to elevate your experience. Not only will you learn the techniques that make this meatloaf moist and flavorful, but you’ll also discover special tips that ensure it becomes a family favorite for generations to come.

Classic Family Meatloaf Recipe

We’re taking you back to your grandma’s kitchen with a timeless Classic Family Meatloaf recipe. Let’s delve into the steps and explore how to make a meatloaf that brings everyone to the table.

INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds Angus Beef
2 eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated onion
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup ketchup, divided
2 tablespoons brown sugar, divided
1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons mustard powder, divided
2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The Importance of Certified Angus Beef

You deserve the best when it comes to feeding your family, and opting for Certified Angus Beef guarantees quality and flavor. This beef stands out due to its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich taste. Using Certified Angus Beef ensures your meatloaf is juicy and flavorful, elevating it beyond the ordinary.

Key Components: Eggs, Panko Breadcrumbs, and More

Creating the ideal meatloaf involves not just quality beef, but also the perfect blend of supporting ingredients. Eggs act as a binder, holding everything together, while panko breadcrumbs provide a light, airy texture. Whole milk adds moisture, ensuring every bite is succulent. These components are crucial in achieving the perfect meatloaf structure and consistency.

Essential Seasonings: Onion, Garlic, and Spices

Seasonings are what transform your meatloaf from bland to extraordinary. Freshly grated onion infuses the meat with sweet, savory notes without the sharp bite that diced onions bring. Minced garlic adds a robust, aromatic flavor, while kosher salt and ground black pepper season the beef evenly. Mustard powder, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce add layers of taste that deepen as the meatloaf bakes, creating a delightful, savory blend.

Prepping the Kitchen

Gathering Tools and Equipment

Before diving into meatloaf preparation, gather all necessary tools and equipment. You’ll need a standard loaf pan, nonstick spray, a sheet tray, plastic wrap, a large mixing bowl, a whisk, a fork, a box grater for the onion, and a small mixing bowl for the glaze. Having everything within reach streamlines the process and ensures you can focus on perfecting your meatloaf.

Prepping the Loaf Pan with Nonstick Spray and Plastic Wrap

Take your loaf pan and lightly spray the bottom and sides with nonstick spray. This simple step ensures easy cleaning and prevents sticking. Next, line the pan with plastic wrap, smoothing out any air bubbles. The plastic wrap helps shape the meatloaf and makes it easier to invert onto the sheet tray later.

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Preparing the Ingredients

Grating the Onion for Optimal Flavor

Start by cutting the top off a large onion and peeling away the outer layer, leaving the root side intact. Grate the onion using a box grater until you have about half a cup. Grating creates an onion pulp that blends seamlessly into the meat, delivering a consistent flavor without large onion chunks.

Mincing Garlic Like a Pro

Peel the garlic cloves by giving them a light smash with the back of your knife. This technique loosens the skin, making it easy to peel. Once peeled, finely mince the garlic until you have about one tablespoon. Minced garlic melds into the meat mixture, ensuring every bite has a hint of garlic without overpowering other flavors.

Choosing the Right Type of Breadcrumbs

For a classic meatloaf texture, panko breadcrumbs are a must. They are lighter and crispier compared to regular breadcrumbs, imparting a pleasant texture that doesn’t make the meatloaf dense. Combine them with other ingredients for a beautifully balanced and airy loaf.

Mixing the Meatloaf Base

Breaking Up the Ground Beef

Place two pounds of Certified Angus Beef ground beef in a large mixing bowl. Break it up into loose chunks, creating a ring around the outer edge of the bowl. This setup makes it easier to incorporate other ingredients evenly without over-mixing the beef, which can make the meatloaf tough.

Creating a Flavorful Mixture: Combining All Ingredients

Add your grated onion, minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, whole milk, kosher salt, ground black pepper, brown sugar, mustard powder, and ketchup to the bowl, with a focus on layering ingredients strategically. Pour the milk directly over the eggs placed in the center, ensuring they combine smoothly when whisked.

The Art of Mixing: Technique Tips for Perfect Texture

Gently mix everything together using your hands. Lift and crumble the mixture instead of squeezing it through your fingers. This technique evenly distributes ingredients without compacting the meat, keeping the texture light and ensuring a uniform mix.

Shaping and Pre-Baking the Meatloaf

Transferring to the Loaf Pan

Shape your meat mixture into a loose log and gently press it into your prepared loaf pan. Ensure there are no large air pockets by pressing down evenly. This maintains the meatloaf’s shape and prevents it from falling apart during the baking process.

Inverting the Loaf onto a Sheet Tray

Using the plastic wrap lining, carefully invert the shaped meatloaf onto a sheet tray. Tap the loaf pan lightly to release the meatloaf in one smooth piece. This method not only sets the shape but also allows you to gain a crust on all sides, enhancing the overall texture.

First Bake: Setting the Shape

Place the sheet tray with the meatloaf into a preheated oven at 350 degrees F. Bake for about 15 minutes. This step sets the shape of the meatloaf and prepares it for the glaze, ensuring it holds together well for the final baking.

Creating the Classic Glaze

Ingredients for the Glaze: Ketchup, Brown Sugar, and More

For a classic, sweet-savory glaze, combine ketchup, brown sugar, mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce in a small mixing bowl. This blend caramelizes beautifully, adding a rich, sticky top layer that enhances the meatloaf’s flavor and keeps the inside moist.

Mixing the Glaze to Perfection

Whisk the glaze ingredients until smooth and well-combined. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the meatloaf without running off, ensuring every bite has a touch of that luscious glaze.

Applying the Glaze

Initial Bake and Glaze Application

After the initial bake, take out your meatloaf and generously brush the glaze over the top and sides. Make sure every exposed surface is covered. This initial application allows the glaze to start caramelizing during the rest of the baking process, creating a delightful crust.

Ensuring Full Coating for Caramelization

Apply a couple of coats to ensure a thick, even layer. This not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing appearance. The glaze will caramelize as it bakes, giving your meatloaf a beautiful and appetizing finish.

Final Baking Step

Bake Time and Temperature

Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 45 to 55 minutes at 350 degrees F. This extended bake time ensures the meatloaf cooks through while allowing the glaze to caramelize and form a delicious crust.

Monitoring Internal Temperature for Safety and Flavor

To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160 degrees F. This ensures safety and a juicy, flavorful meatloaf. Avoid overcooking, as it can dry out the meat.

Resting and Slicing the Meatloaf

Importance of Letting the Meatloaf Rest

Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Skipping this step can result in a dry, crumbly meatloaf.

Safe Transfer to Cutting Board

Carefully transfer your meatloaf to a cutting board using two spatulas. This technique provides support and prevents the meatloaf from breaking apart. Ensure you handle it gently, maintaining its shape and structure.

Tips for Slicing Without Losing Moisture

Use a sharp knife to slice your meatloaf. Start with a gentle sawing motion to get through the crust and then smoothly slice down. Slicing too quickly can cause the loaf to crumble. Aim for even, uniform slices to make serving easier and more attractive.

Conclusion

Summing Up the Classic Family Meatloaf Experience

Making a classic family meatloaf is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating something comforting and familiar that everyone can enjoy. By paying attention to ingredients, using proper techniques, and adding your personal touch, you can craft a meatloaf that stands out and brings joy to the table.

Inviting Family and Friends to Share the Joy

There’s something special about gathering around the table and sharing a meal that’s been thoughtfully prepared. Invite your family and friends to enjoy this tasty meatloaf, and savor the moments of connection it fosters.

Encouraging Readers to Experiment and Personalize

While this recipe respects tradition, don’t hesitate to make it your own. Experiment with different seasonings, add vegetables, or try a new glaze to suit your family’s tastes. Cooking is a personal journey, and every tweak can make the meatloaf uniquely yours.

Embrace these steps, and you’ll create a meatloaf that not only honors tradition but also stands as a testament to your culinary skills. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the meal with those you love.