Old fashioned momma s meatloaf

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the meatloaf when you’re finished preparing it.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and milk. Crack the egg into the mixture and pour in the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Use your hands (or a spoon) to mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat—this can lead to a dense meatloaf.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can also form the meatloaf into a free-form loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Either way, shape the loaf so that it’s evenly distributed and about 2 to 3 inches tall for even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. This glaze is key to giving the meatloaf its signature sweet and tangy flavor. Stir the ingredients until smooth, then brush a generous layer of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you like a crispy glaze, you can brush the meatloaf with an additional layer of glaze halfway through the baking time.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf

There’s something about Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf that’s more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a dish. Here are a few reasons why this recipe has stood the test of time:

• Hearty & Comforting: The combination of beef and pork creates a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. The breadcrumbs and milk keep the meatloaf moist and tender, while the onions and garlic add a savory depth.
• Sweet & Tangy Glaze: The homemade glaze made of ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar gives the meatloaf a delicious sweet-and-tangy finish that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile: While this recipe is great as is, you can easily tweak it to fit your taste. Try adding cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) into the meat mixture or top the meatloaf with sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. You can even swap the ground pork for other ground meats like turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This meatloaf makes excellent leftovers, and it even tastes better the next day! You can serve it with mashed potatoes, on a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad for a quick, satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly: The mild, comforting flavors of this meatloaf make it perfect for picky eaters. The sweet glaze is especially appealing to kids, while adults will appreciate the savory, well-seasoned meat.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix the Meat: It’s important to mix the ingredients just until combined. Overworking the meatloaf can result in a dense texture.
• Use Lean Meat: While a little fat is necessary for flavor and moisture, too much fat can make the meatloaf greasy. 80% lean ground beef is a good choice for balance.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest after it’s done cooking ensures it stays juicy. This step is crucial for getting clean slices and preventing the juices from running out.
• Add Extra Flavor: For extra depth of flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture. This adds sweetness and a caramelized note to the meatloaf.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf is a classic, hearty dish that brings both nostalgia and comfort to the table. It’s simple to make yet full of rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf recipe is a must-try.

The tender, juicy meatloaf paired with its sweet and tangy glaze is a winning combination. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to make a dish that’s as comforting as a hug from mom. It’s the kind of meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!