This fantastic Southern meatloaf saved me from a party emergency last week. I totally forgot about the party. (I blame it on my mommy brain). But I didn’t show up empty-handed because of this super easy recipe. What a lifesaver! I make three batches when I crave homemade meatloaf because it’s a great make-ahead dish. One goes to the table for a delicious homemade dinner. Then the other two go in the freezer for a fast meal later (or an emergency save for a forgotten party).
Recipe Ingredients
How to Make Southern Meatloaf
Make the Meatloaf
Saute Veggies – Pour about 1 tablespoon of oil into a small-medium saucepan, and heat on medium. Add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper, then saute for a minute or two to let the flavors bloom. Be careful not to let it burn. Set it aside and let it cool.Combine – Place the beef, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, thyme, white and cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and beef bouillon in a medium bowl. Then add the cooled onion mixture, followed by milk and salt. Mix them lightly until everything has been thoroughly combined.Transfer – Form meatloaf into a loaf on a rimmed baking pan or place it into a 5×9-inch loaf pan, lightly press so it’s evenly distributed in the pan.Bake for about 40 minutes, then carefully remove from the oven.
Meatloaf Glaze
Combine – Mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar in a small bowl.Glaze the Meatloaf – Then brush the meatloaf with the ketchup glaze.Bake Again – Return the meatloaf to the oven. Continue baking for another 20 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf registers 160℉/72℃.Serve – Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead Instructions
This recipe is a dependable make-ahead dish for a big crowd because it’s super easy. You can prep your meatloaf the day before, and it will taste even better after all the flavors meld. Cover the meatloaf with foil and keep it in the fridge overnight. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature while you preheat the oven. Alternatively, you can wrap the unbaked meatloaf tightly with cling wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when the craving hits.
Serving and Storage Instructions
This old-fashioned meatloaf recipe also makes a mouthwatering sandwich—an enticing alternative to a burger patty. And get ready for a flavor fest with condiments like mustard BBQ sauce and roasted red pepper sauce. Cooked meatloaf will stay fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days and 3 months in the freezer if stored properly. Thaw your Southern meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight, then let it come to room temperature. Reheat by baking it for 25-30 minutes at 250°F/120℃ or until heated through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Or reheat meatloaf slices in a microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
What to Serve with Southern Meatloaf
Enjoy this classic meatloaf like a real Southerner with these equally delectable pairings.
More Easy Ground Beef Recipes to Try
Conclusion
This traditional meatloaf is one of the dishes I love eating growing up. How about you? What was your favorite dish growing up? Let me know in the comments. ❤️
Watch How to Make It
[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”VC7hbNDV” upload-date=”2022-10-03T13:05:08.000Z” name=”SOUTHERN MEATLOAF.mp4″ description=”Southern Meatloaf is moist, tender, and flavorful meaty goodness, glistening with a luscious sweet glaze. A classic comfort food that truly impresses everyone! ” player-type=”collapse” override-embed=”false”]
