Old fashioned momma s meatloaf

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan for the meatloaf.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Mixing the two types of meat gives the meatloaf a better texture and flavor. Add the finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, and beaten egg. Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together, but don’t overwork the meat to avoid a tough meatloaf.

3. Form the Meatloaf:

Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. Shape the mixture into a loaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide. If you’re using a baking sheet, feel free to shape it directly on the sheet.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard. This glaze will give the meatloaf a rich, sweet-tangy finish. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth.

5. Apply the Glaze:

Spoon half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf and spread it evenly. This will create a delicious sticky coating that caramelizes as it bakes.

6. Bake the Meatloaf:

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf for an extra layer of flavor and a glossy finish.

7. Rest and Serve:

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help the juices settle and make slicing easier. Slice it into generous pieces and serve with your favorite side dishes, like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

Why This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Works:

• Juicy and Tender: The combination of ground beef and pork ensures that the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful. The breadcrumbs and milk help bind the ingredients together while keeping the texture light and tender.
• Sweet and Savory Glaze: The ketchup-brown sugar-mustard glaze brings a wonderful balance of sweetness and tang, giving each bite a burst of flavor.
• Simplicity at Its Best: The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet the resulting dish is so much more than the sum of its parts. This recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf:

• Don’t Overmix: While it’s important to thoroughly combine the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the meat. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough meatloaf. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
• Add Veggies: If you like, you can sneak some finely grated veggies into the meatloaf. Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions and can be added without changing the flavor profile too much.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or glaze for an extra kick.

Variations of Old-Fashioned Meatloaf:

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: For a cheesy twist, add a layer of shredded cheese in the center of the meat mixture before baking. Mozzarella or cheddar works well, creating a gooey surprise inside.
• Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: For bacon lovers, wrap the meatloaf in strips of bacon before baking. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and a crispy texture to the outside of the meatloaf.
• Italian Meatloaf: Add Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce to give your meatloaf an Italian flair. You can also top it with a little more mozzarella before baking for a cheesy crust.

Why You’ll Keep Making This Meatloaf:

Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. With its savory meat, sweet and tangy glaze, and tender texture, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s also incredibly versatile, so whether you want to keep it traditional or experiment with new ingredients, it can easily adapt to your preferences.

This recipe isn’t just for nostalgia’s sake—it’s a delicious, comforting meal that will keep everyone at the table happy. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) make fantastic sandwiches for the next day!

So, if you’re looking for a meal that’s both classic and delicious, Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf is the answer. Get ready to enjoy a slice of comfort with every bite!