Introduction
Welcome to Southern Nana’s Meatloaf recipe! Growing up in the heart of the Southern United States, meatloaf was a staple on our dinner table. The aroma of this classic comfort food baking in the oven always filled our home with warmth and anticipation. Today, I am excited to share with you this treasured family recipe that has been passed down through generations.
What makes Southern Nana’s Meatloaf so special is not just its savory flavors and juicy texture but also the memories and traditions that accompany it. This recipe is a true embodiment of Southern hospitality and home-cooked goodness, perfect for bringing loved ones together around the dinner table.
With a perfect blend of ground beef, seasonings, and a tangy glaze, this meatloaf is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely make it a favorite in your household as well. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the heartwarming world of Southern Nana’s Meatloaf!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best features of Southern Nana’s Meatloaf is its simplicity. With basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer a classic meatloaf or want to experiment with different seasonings or fillings, Southern Nana’s Meatloaf offers endless possibilities for customization.
Additionally, this meatloaf is a great option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week either as the main course or sliced in sandwiches for a quick and tasty lunch.
Furthermore, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you follow a gluten-free, keto, or paleo diet, there are simple ingredient substitutions available to make this meatloaf recipe work for you.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
– 1 ½ pounds ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 eggs
– ½ cup milk
– ⅓ cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Optional ingredient substitutions:
– Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
– Gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option
– BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, and milk. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until cooked through.
6. Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
7. Enjoy your delicious Southern Nana’s Meatloaf!
Expert Tips for Success
For a juicier meatloaf, consider adding a small amount of chicken or beef broth to the meat mixture.
To prevent the meatloaf from becoming too dense, avoid overmixing the ingredients once they are combined.
If you prefer a more caramelized glaze, broil the meatloaf for a few minutes after baking to achieve a slightly charred crust.
When reheating leftover meatloaf, consider slicing it and pan-frying the slices for a crispy exterior and a warm, tender interior.
Variations and Substitutions
If you want to add some extra flavor to your meatloaf, consider mixing in chopped bell peppers, shredded cheese, or cooked bacon into the meat mixture before baking.
For a healthier version of this recipe, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with rolled oats or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients.
If you are following a low-carb diet, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or grated Parmesan cheese for a keto-friendly meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Southern Nana’s Meatloaf hot out of the oven with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic Southern meal that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
For a lighter option, pair the meatloaf with a fresh garden salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing to balance out the richness of the dish.
To complete your meal, consider serving sweet tea or a glass of lemonade for a refreshing drink that complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare Southern Nana’s Meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking for added convenience.
Q: How can I tell if the meatloaf is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) before removing it from the oven.
Q: Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the sliced meatloaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on your culinary journey with Southern Nana’s Meatloaf, remember that cooking is not just about following a recipe but about creating memories and traditions that will last a lifetime. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this timeless meatloaf recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and comfort as it has brought my family over the years. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and savor each delicious bite of Southern Nana’s Meatloaf. Bon appétit!
Southern Nana’s Meatloaf
A classic comfort food recipe passed down through generations, Southern Nana’s Meatloaf offers a delightful blend of ground beef, seasonings, and a tangy glaze. Perfect for bringing loved ones together around the dinner table, this meatloaf is a true embodiment of Southern hospitality and home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, and milk. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until cooked through.
- Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Southern Nana’s Meatloaf!
Nutrition Facts
