Homemade Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food you've probably been enjoying since childhood—but let's take it up a notch! This recipe combines ground beef, pork, and veal for a rich, flavorful blend, though you can easily substitute with your favorite ground meats or just use beef. Sautéed peppers and onions add extra depth, while a touch of umami brings out the best in every bite. And here’s a pro tip (thanks, Ron!): adding milk hydrates the breadcrumbs, keeping your meatloaf incredibly moist and tender.

Give this homemade meatloaf a try—it's simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to please the whole family. No pouting at the dinner table tonight!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

Meat Blend:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 lb ground pork

• 1/2 lb ground veal

Binding & Moisture:

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 ½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 tsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1/2 yellow or white onion, diced

• 1/2 red or green bell pepper, diced

• 1 tsp garlic, minced

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp Kosher or sea salt

• 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 2 tsp fresh chopped parsley)

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if shaping the meatloaf by hand.

2. Mix the Meatloaf:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, and veal.

   • Add the eggs, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, parsley, tomato paste, onions, peppers and milk.

   • Sprinkle in the breadcrumbs, then mix everything gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

   • 👉Tip: Use your less dominant hand to mix the meat.

3. Shape & Bake:

   • Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it in lightly, or shape it into a loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Rest & Serve:

   • Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and keeps it from falling apart.

   • Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dish.

   • Top with homemade beef gravy or ketchup. You can also try my glaze!

Optional Glaze (for Extra Flavor!):

If you like a glazed meatloaf, mix the following and brush on top during the last 15 minutes of baking:

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/8 tsp granulated garlic

• 1/8 tsp granulated onion

• Splash of soy sauce