This Ultimate Savory Meatloaf recipe delivers a rich, hearty main dish that's the very definition of comfort food. The combination of ground beef and herbs, topped with a sweet and tangy sauce, creates a satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
The main ingredients of this recipe are generally common, but there might be a couple you'll need to look out for. Italian breadcrumbs and chili sauce could be located in the international aisle at your supermarket. If you can't find Italian breadcrumbs, you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs and add some Italian seasoning.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Savory Meatloaf
Eggs: Provides moisture and structure to the meatloaf.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
Italian breadcrumbs: Adds texture and flavor.
Ground beef: The main component of the meatloaf, bringing protein and flavor.
Onion: Provides a mild, sweet flavor to the dish.
Chili sauce: Gives a sweet and spiced flavor profile.
Italian seasoning: Enhances the flavor with a blend of traditional Italian herbs.
Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note.
Chili sauce (for the meatloaf sauce): Enhances the topping sauce with a sweet and spiced flavor.
Ketchup (for the meatloaf sauce): Provides a tangy, sweet base for the topping sauce.
Brown sugar (for the meatloaf sauce): Adds sweetness and caramelization to the topping sauce.
One reader, Blinnie Harwood says:
This ultimate savory meatloaf recipe is a game-changer! The blend of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor, and the meatloaf sauce is the perfect finishing touch. It's a hit with my family every time, and the leftovers are just as delicious. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making the Ultimate Savory Meatloaf
How to prepare the meatloaf mixture: Combine eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs in a bowl and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Then add the ground beef, onions, chili sauce, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
How to form the meatloaf: Shape the meatloaf mixture into an 8x4-inch loaf on a prepared baking tray.
How to make the meatloaf sauce: Combine chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar (if using) to create the sauce for the meatloaf.
How to glaze the meatloaf: Spread the meatloaf sauce over the meatloaf before baking.
How to check for doneness: Ensure the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F before slicing.
How to rest the meatloaf: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
How To Make The Best Meatloaf
This easy meatloaf recipe will be your next go-to! Try this for scrumptious and juicy meat with the flavors of chili, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2eggs
- ¾cupmilk
- ¾cupItalian breadcrumbs
- 2lbsground beef
- ⅓cuponion,diced
- 1tbspchili sauce
- 1tspItalian seasoning
- 2tbspfresh parsley,chopped
For the Meatloaf Sauce:
- ½cupchili sauce
- ½cupketchup
- 2tbspbrown sugar,optional
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a foil-lined baking tray with cooking spray and set aside.
-
In a medium bowl combine eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs. Allow mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
-
Add the ground beef, onions, 1 tablespoon of chili sauce, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
-
Form an 8×4-inch loaf on the prepared baking tray. Bake for 40 minutes.
-
Meanwhile, combine the chili sauce and ketchup (and brown sugar if using). Spread mixture over the meatloaf, then bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until cooked through and the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees F.
-
Allow meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Calories: 404.43kcal
- Fat: 25.08g
- Saturated Fat: 9.50g
- Trans Fat: 1.34g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.73g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.09g
- Carbohydrates: 19.36g
- Fiber: 1.82g
- Sugar: 9.53g
- Protein: 23.64g
- Cholesterol: 122.79mg
- Sodium: 568.44mg
- Calcium: 83.99mg
- Potassium: 503.25mg
- Iron: 3.33mg
- Vitamin A: 46.92µg
- Vitamin C: 5.51mg
Crucial Technique Tip for the Ultimate Savory Meatloaf
When mixing the ground beef with the other ingredients, it's important to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough meatloaf. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until they're just incorporated. This will ensure your meatloaf remains tender and juicy.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Savory Meatloaf
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop onions and other vegetables for the meatloaf mixture.
Double the recipe: Make two meatloaves and freeze one for a future meal to save time on busy days.
One-pan cooking: Consider making a meatloaf in a muffin tin for individual portions that cook faster.
Cook in advance: Cook the meatloaf a day ahead and reheat it when needed to save time on the day of serving.
Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools such as sharp knives and efficient gadgets can save time during meal preparation.
Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen organized and clean to make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
Follow the recipe: Following the recipe precisely can help avoid mistakes and save time on troubleshooting.
Substitute Ingredients For The Best Meatloaf Recipe
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs in meatloaf recipes. To make flax eggs, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous, similar to the texture of eggs.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk in the meatloaf recipe. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and works well in binding the ingredients together.
italian breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for Italian breadcrumbs, providing a lighter and crunchier texture to the meatloaf.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in the meatloaf recipe. It offers a lighter flavor and texture while still providing a delicious meatloaf.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the meatloaf.
chili sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for chili sauce, adding a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the meatloaf.
italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoning, adding a fragrant and savory blend of herbs to the meatloaf.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, providing a bright and citrusy flavor to the meatloaf.
chili sauce - Substitute with barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce can be used as a substitute for chili sauce in the meatloaf sauce, adding a smoky and tangy flavor to the dish.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for ketchup in the meatloaf sauce, providing a rich and savory base for the sauce.
Presenting the Ultimate Savory Meatloaf
Elevate the meatloaf: Instead of serving a traditional meatloaf slice, consider shaping the meatloaf into individual portions using a ring mold for a more refined presentation. This will add an elegant touch to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the finished meatloaf with a delicate arrangement of fresh parsley and chives to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Create a savory glaze design: Use a piping bag to create an intricate design with the savory glaze on the meatloaf. This can be in the form of a lattice pattern or any other artistic design to showcase the attention to detail.
Accompany with gourmet sides: Serve the meatloaf alongside gourmet sides such as truffle mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables to elevate the overall dining experience.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers such as nasturtiums or borage to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the presentation.
Utilize elegant plating: Consider using fine china or artisanal ceramic plates to present the meatloaf, elevating the visual appeal and creating a luxurious dining experience.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a truly luxurious presentation, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of the meatloaf to add a shimmering, opulent touch.
Serve with a reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction or red wine reduction on the plate before placing the meatloaf to add a sophisticated and flavorful element to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Savory Meatloaf
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients for the meatloaf. It provides a spacious and sturdy vessel for mixing the ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
Baking tray: A baking tray is used to shape and bake the meatloaf. It provides a flat surface for the meatloaf to cook evenly and prevents any drippings from spilling into the oven.
Foil: Foil is used to line the baking tray, making cleanup easier and preventing the meatloaf from sticking to the tray.
Measuring cups: Measuring cups are essential for accurately measuring the milk, breadcrumbs, chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar, ensuring the right balance of flavors and textures in the meatloaf and sauce.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure precise amounts of spices and seasonings, such as the Italian seasoning and fresh parsley, to enhance the flavor of the meatloaf.
Spatula: A spatula is useful for spreading the meatloaf sauce evenly over the meatloaf before baking, ensuring a flavorful and caramelized topping.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the meatloaf to perfection, cooking it through while creating a delicious crust on the outside.
Cooking spray: Cooking spray is used to grease the foil-lined baking tray, preventing the meatloaf from sticking and making it easier to remove after baking.
Knife: A knife is essential for slicing and serving the meatloaf once it has rested, allowing for neat and appetizing portions.
Storing and Freezing Savory Meatloaf
Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and maintain the texture of the meatloaf.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped meatloaf in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the meatloaf:
- Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Cover the wrapped meatloaf with a layer of aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal.
- Label the package with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the wrapped meatloaf in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat the meatloaf, remove it from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and aluminum foil from the meatloaf.
- Place the meatloaf in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If desired, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating to crisp up the top of the meatloaf.
Alternatively, you can slice the meatloaf before freezing:
- Cut the cooled meatloaf into individual slices.
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container.
- Label the package with the date and contents.
- Freeze the slices for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the slices in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
How To Reheat Meatloaf Leftovers
To reheat leftover meatloaf, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the meatloaf in an oven-safe dish and add a tablespoon or two of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This low and slow method ensures that the meatloaf doesn't dry out or become tough.
Another option is to reheat individual slices of meatloaf in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a bit of butter or oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Place the meatloaf slices in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This method gives the meatloaf a nice crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use your microwave. Place a slice of meatloaf on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meatloaf to become dry and rubbery.
If you have leftover meatloaf sauce, you can use it to add moisture and flavor when reheating. Brush the sauce over the meatloaf slices before reheating in the oven, skillet, or microwave. This will help keep the meatloaf moist and give it an extra burst of flavor.
Transform your leftover meatloaf into a delicious sandwich. Slice the meatloaf thinly and place it between two slices of bread or in a roll. Add your favorite condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise, and top with lettuce, tomato, and cheese if desired. Grill the sandwich in a panini press or skillet for a crispy, satisfying meal.
Interesting Fact About Savory Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in ancient Rome, where it was made with a variety of meats, spices, and fillers. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and today there are countless variations of this savory dish enjoyed around the world.
Is Making Savory Meatloaf at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this savory meatloaf recipe is quite favorable. Ground beef is a budget-friendly protein, and the addition of breadcrumbs and onions helps stretch the meatloaf to serve a family of four. The use of common pantry staples like milk and ketchup keeps the overall cost low. The approximate cost for a household of four people would be around $15-$20, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Savory Meatloaf Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This meatloaf recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The recipe relies heavily on ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- The use of breadcrumbs and milk adds additional carbohydrates and calories to the dish.
- The meatloaf sauce, containing chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar, is high in sugar and sodium.
However, the inclusion of onions and parsley does provide some nutritional value, albeit minimal in comparison to the other ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Substitute a portion of the ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce the overall fat content.
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of Italian breadcrumbs to increase the fiber content.
- Reduce the amount of milk used, or replace it with a low-fat alternative like skim milk or chicken broth.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the meatloaf mixture, such as grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient content and add moisture.
- For the sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar used, or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with using tomato paste instead of ketchup to lower the sugar content.
- Consider using fresh herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt or sugar-heavy condiments.
Editor's Opinion on This Savory Meatloaf Recipe
This ultimate savory meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food that's sure to please. The combination of ground beef, onions, and a flavorful meatloaf sauce creates a deliciously moist and flavorful dish. The addition of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley adds a depth of flavor that elevates this meatloaf to a whole new level. The simple yet bold flavors make this recipe a standout, and the easy preparation makes it perfect for any night of the week. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit.
Enhance Your The Best Meatloaf Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this The Best Meatloaf Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delectable meatloaf experience, crafted with the finest ground beef and a blend of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley. The savory meatloaf sauce, featuring a harmonious mix of chili sauce, ketchup, and a hint of brown sugar, adds a tantalizing depth of flavor. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality, this recipe ensures a mouthwatering meatloaf that will undoubtedly impress your taste buds. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe for a truly exceptional dining experience.
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