American Southern Meatloaf

Happy American Southern Meatloaf

Byinfo.recipesboox

Origin: United States (Southern states)Key Features: Juicy, tender ground beef loaf with caramelized ketchup-brown sugar glaze, baked to savory perfection. Served with…

Origin: United States (Southern states)
Key Features: Juicy, tender ground beef loaf with caramelized ketchup-brown sugar glaze, baked to savory perfection. Served with mashed potatoes and green beans.

📜 Recipe

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 1 hour | Serves: 6

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ⅓ cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)

👩‍🍳 Steps

  1. Prep Vegetables:
    • Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic in 1 tbsp oil until soft (5 mins). Cool completely (prevents steaming the meat).
  2. Mix Meatloaf:
    • In a large bowl, combine:
      • Ground beef, breadcrumbs, cooled veggies, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper.
    • Gently mix with hands until just combined (overmixing = tough meatloaf).
  3. Shape & Glaze:
    • Transfer mixture to a greased loaf pan OR shape freeform on a baking sheet.
    • Make the glaze: Whisk ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard.
    • Spread ⅔ of the glaze over the meatloaf.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 mins.
    • Brush remaining glaze on top after 40 mins.
  5. Rest & Serve:
    • Let rest 10 mins before slicing.
    • Internal temp should reach 160°F (71°C).

🌟 Pro Tips for Authentic Southern Style

  1. Binders: Use crushed saltines or Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs for extra tenderness.
  2. Fat Content: 80% lean beef keeps it juicy (don’t use extra-lean!).
  3. Glaze Trick: Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the glaze for depth (optional but iconic).
  4. Pan Choice: Bake freeform on a sheet pan for caramelized edges; use a loaf pan for juicier results.
  5. Leftover Magic: Fry slices next day for a crispy meatloaf sandwich!

🥗 Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, or mac and cheese.
  • Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives.
  • Drizzle: Extra glaze or hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco).

❤️ Why Southerners Love It: “Meatloaf is Sunday supper nostalgia – humble, hearty, and glazed with love.”