Best Old-Fashioned Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe | Comfort Food Classic🍴

Table of Contents: Homestyle Meatloaf

Homestyle Meatloaf

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty slice of HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF. It’s the kind of dish that transports you back to Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house, where the aroma of savory meatloaf wafted through the kitchen. This CLASSIC COMFORT MEATLOAF RECIPE is perfect for FAMILY MEATLOAF DINNERS, weeknight meals, or even holiday gatherings. With its tender texture, rich flavors, and a tangy tomato glaze, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into the art of crafting the perfect meatloaf!

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Introduction: HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF

Meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic experience. This HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF recipe captures the essence of traditional comfort food, blending simple ingredients into a dish that feels both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a cozy dinner party, or simply craving a taste of home, this CLASSIC COMFORT MEATLOAF RECIPE delivers every time.

What sets this recipe apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The ground chuck ensures a rich, juicy base, while the crushed saltine crackers add just the right amount of crunch. Fresh parsley, celery, and onion bring freshness, and the tangy tomato glaze ties it all together with a sweet-and-savory finish.

This dish is versatile, too—serve it as a centerpiece for FAMILY MEATLOAF DINNERS, pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal, or enjoy leftovers the next day for a satisfying lunch. It’s the kind of recipe that invites everyone to the table, creating lasting memories with every bite.

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Alternate Names & Variations

This HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF might also be called:
– Traditional Meatloaf
– Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
– Classic American Meatloaf

Variations could include swapping ground chuck for ground turkey, using breadcrumbs instead of saltine crackers, or adding a layer of cheese for an extra indulgence.

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Ingredients: HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF

For the Meatloaf:

– 2 lbs ground chuck
– 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
– 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
– 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
– 1 1/4 teaspoons ground black pepper
– 2 large lightly beaten eggs

For the Glaze:

– 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
– 5 slices white bread
– 2 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chuck, crushed saltine crackers, celery, onion, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and lightly beaten eggs. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing for a tender texture.

3. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.

4. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together tomato paste, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Chef Tip: For extra moisture, soak the saltine crackers in milk before adding them to the mixture.

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Recipe Card Block

This HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF takes about 15 minutes to prep and 50–60 minutes to cook, totaling around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It serves 6–8 people and contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

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Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This CLASSIC COMFORT MEATLOAF RECIPE works because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, tangy glaze, and tender meat creates a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile.

– Use fresh parsley for a burst of herbal flavor.
– Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce—it adds depth and umami.
– Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to lock in the juices.

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftover HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

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People Also Ask: HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF

What defines a homestyle meatloaf recipe?

A homestyle meatloaf recipe is characterized by its simplicity and comforting flavors. It typically includes ground meat, breadcrumbs or crackers, eggs, and seasonings, topped with a tangy glaze. The term “homestyle” evokes nostalgia and a sense of tradition, making it ideal for family dinners.

How do you make homestyle meatloaf moist?

To keep your meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients and use a combination of wet ingredients like eggs and Worcestershire sauce. Adding soaked saltine crackers or breadcrumbs also helps retain moisture during baking.

What sides go well with homestyle meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a simple salad. These pairings complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf, creating a well-rounded meal.

Can homestyle meatloaf be cooked in a slow cooker?

Yes! Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in a slow cooker lined with foil. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, adding the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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Conclusion: HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF

This HOMESTYLE MEATLOAF recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, comfort, and togetherness. Whether you’re serving it for a FAMILY MEATLOAF DINNER or enjoying it as leftovers, it’s sure to bring smiles to the table. Give it a try and share your results with us!

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