Barbara’s Best Meatloaf: A Classic Recipe for Comfort Food Perfection
Meatloaf. The very word conjures up images of cozy kitchens, family dinners, and the comforting aroma of savory goodness. It’s a dish that transcends generations, a culinary hug on a plate. And while there are countless meatloaf recipes out there, some stand out above the rest. This is Barbara’s Best Meatloaf – a recipe passed down through generations, perfected over years, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
This isn’t just any meatloaf recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and time-honored techniques. It’s moist, flavorful, and boasts a delicious glaze that adds a touch of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and yields incredible results every time.
## Why This Meatloaf is the BEST
What makes Barbara’s Best Meatloaf so special? It’s a combination of factors that work together to create a truly exceptional dish:
* **Moisture is Key:** The secret to a great meatloaf is preventing it from drying out. This recipe incorporates ingredients like bread soaked in milk and a generous amount of vegetables to ensure a tender, juicy texture.
* **Flavorful Foundation:** A blend of ground beef, pork, and veal (or a combination of your choosing) provides a rich, complex flavor base. The addition of sautéed onions, garlic, and bell pepper adds depth and aroma.
* **Perfectly Balanced Glaze:** The glaze is the crowning glory of this meatloaf. It’s a sweet and tangy combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a delectable crust.
* **Simple and Straightforward:** Despite its incredible flavor, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. It requires minimal effort and uses readily available ingredients.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
**For the Meatloaf:**
* 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
* 1 pound ground pork
* 1/2 pound ground veal (optional, can substitute with more beef or pork)
* 1 large onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
* 1 cup bread crumbs (plain or Italian-style)
* 1 cup milk
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**For the Glaze:**
* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create Barbara’s Best Meatloaf:
**Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables**
1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
**Why this step is important:** Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the meatloaf helps to soften them and release their flavors, creating a more complex and delicious taste.
**Step 2: Soak the Bread**
1. In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk.
2. Let soak for 5-10 minutes, until the bread crumbs are softened.
**Why this step is important:** Soaking the bread in milk helps to keep the meatloaf moist and tender. The breadcrumbs act as a binder and prevent the meat from drying out during baking.
**Step 3: Combine the Ingredients**
1. Add the ground beef, ground pork, and ground veal (if using) to the bowl with the soaked bread crumbs.
2. Add the cooled sautéed vegetables, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
**Why this step is important:** Gently mixing the ingredients is crucial for achieving a tender meatloaf. Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, which can make it dense and chewy.
**Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet. You can also use a loaf pan, but baking it on a sheet allows for better air circulation and a more even crust.
**Tip:** To prevent the meatloaf from sticking to your hands, lightly wet them with cold water before shaping the loaf.
**Step 5: Prepare the Glaze**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
**Why this step is important:** The glaze adds a touch of sweetness, tanginess, and a beautiful caramelized crust to the meatloaf.
**Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf**
1. Brush the meatloaf with half of the glaze.
2. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
3. During the last 15 minutes of baking, brush the meatloaf with the remaining glaze.
**Why this step is important:** Baking the meatloaf to the correct internal temperature ensures that it is cooked through and safe to eat. Basting with the glaze during the last 15 minutes creates a beautiful caramelized crust.
**Step 7: Rest and Slice**
1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice the meatloaf into desired thickness and serve.
**Why this step is important:** Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
## Tips for Meatloaf Perfection
* **Use the Right Meat:** A blend of ground beef, pork, and veal is ideal for flavor and texture. However, you can substitute with more beef or pork if desired. Choose ground beef with an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) for optimal moisture.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the meatloaf can result in a tough texture. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
* **Add Moisture:** Soaked breadcrumbs and vegetables are essential for keeping the meatloaf moist. You can also add other ingredients like grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and flavor.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the meat mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs and spices.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the meatloaf is cooked through to the correct internal temperature.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
## Variations and Additions
* **Spicy Meatloaf:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Italian Meatloaf:** Use Italian-style bread crumbs and add a tablespoon of Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. Top with mozzarella cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
* **Vegetarian Meatloaf:** Substitute the meat with lentils, beans, or a combination of vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of milk for soaking the bread crumbs.
* **Add Cheese:** Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture for a cheesy flavor.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add grated zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra moisture and nutrients.
## Serving Suggestions
Barbara’s Best Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Mashed Potatoes and Gravy:** A classic combination that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted carrots, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus are a healthy and delicious side dish.
* **Green Beans:** Simple steamed or sautéed green beans are a great way to add some green to your plate.
* **Mac and Cheese:** A comforting and cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf.
* **Coleslaw:** A refreshing and crunchy side dish that balances out the richness of the meatloaf.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a light and refreshing option.
## Making Ahead and Storage
* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
* **Storage:** Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
* **Freezing:** Cooked meatloaf can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
## Recipe Card
**Barbara’s Best Meatloaf**
A classic meatloaf recipe that’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a delicious glaze.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 75 minutes
**Rest Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 45 minutes
**Servings:** 8-10
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
* 1 pound ground pork
* 1/2 pound ground veal (optional)
* 1 large onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
* 1 cup bread crumbs (plain or Italian-style)
* 1 cup milk
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Glaze:**
* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and bell peppers and cook until tender. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs and milk. Let soak for 5-10 minutes.
4. Add ground beef, pork, veal (if using), sautéed vegetables, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the soaked bread crumbs. Gently mix until just combined.
5. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard for the glaze.
7. Brush the meatloaf with half of the glaze.
8. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Brush with the remaining glaze during the last 15 minutes of baking.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
## Conclusion
Barbara’s Best Meatloaf is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition. It’s a dish that brings people together, evokes fond memories, and nourishes both body and soul. With its simple ingredients, easy instructions, and incredible flavor, this meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your family’s kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the comforting goodness of Barbara’s Best Meatloaf!
Enjoy!