The Best Homemade Meatloaf Recipe!

Jere's Famous Meatloaf Recipe: A Family Tradition

Hey there, folks! It's Jere from Amber Marie & Co., and today I'm thrilled to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: my famous meatloaf. This dish has been a staple in my family for generations, and I'm excited to pass it along to you. So, grab your apron and let's get cooking!

Introduction: A Taste of Tradition

Meatloaf isn't just a meal; it's a memory. As I mix together the ingredients for this savory dish, I can't help but reminisce about the countless times I've made it for my loved ones. From family gatherings to cozy weeknight dinners, meatloaf has always been a source of comfort and joy in our home.

In today's blog, I'll walk you through my tried-and-true meatloaf recipe, complete with all the tips and tricks I've picked up over the years. From selecting the perfect ground beef to adding those special secret ingredients, I'll guide you every step of the way. So, whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, get ready to create a meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's gather our ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

• 2 lbs of ground beef (I prefer 85% lean for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness)
• 1 green pepper
• 1 onion
• 2 eggs
• Dry mustard
• Seasoned salt (I swear by my trusty Season-All blend)
• Barbecue sauce (Craft Original is my go-to)
• Ketchup (I'm loyal to the classic Heinz)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Cholula hot sauce (shh, it's our little secret)
• Saltine crackers

Products List 

• Supoon
• Kitchen Tools & Accessories

Cooking Process: Mixing Up Memories

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: Start by adding the ground beef to a mixing bowl. I love using my vintage Mason Cash bowl for this—it's been a kitchen staple for over a century! See our bowls available at Amber Marie & Co.
   

2. Chop the Veggies: Dice up the green pepper and onion. I like to chop them finely for even distribution throughout the meatloaf.
   

3. Season to Perfection: Add the chopped veggies to the ground beef, along with a teaspoon of dry mustard, seasoned salt to taste, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a few drops of Cholula for an extra kick.
   

4. Sauce it Up: Mix in a generous dollop of ketchup and barbecue sauce. The combination of these two sauces adds depth of flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist.
   

5. Egg-cellent Binding: Crack in two eggs and whisk them before adding to the bowl. Eggs act as a binder, ensuring that your meatloaf holds its shape while baking.
   

6. Crunch Time: Crush up some saltine crackers and add them to the mixture. This helps bind everything together and gives the meatloaf a satisfying texture.
   

7. Mix and Shape: Use your hands to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Don't be afraid to get a little messy—it's all part of the fun! Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
   

8. Top it Off: Spread a layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf before popping it in the oven. This adds a touch of sweetness and helps create a mouthwatering glaze.
   

9. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the meatloaf for about an hour, or until it's cooked through and golden brown on top. I like to baste off any excess grease halfway through cooking to keep it nice and lean.
   

Side Dish Suggestions: Completing the Meal

While your meatloaf is baking, why not whip up some delicious side dishes to accompany it? Here are a few of my favorites:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Scalloped potatoes
• Garlic green beans with bacon
• Side salad with a tangy vinaigrette

And, of course, no meal is complete without a refreshing glass of sweet tea to wash it all down.

Conclusion: Bringing It All Together

As the aroma of freshly baked meatloaf fills your kitchen, take a moment to savor the anticipation of sharing this meal with your loved ones. Whether it's a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, my hope is that this recipe brings you as much joy and comfort as it has brought to my family over the years.

I'd love to hear about your own meatloaf memories and any variations you've tried. Feel free to share your stories and recipes in the comments below!

And don't forget to watch the full video on our channel for more mouthwatering recipes and kitchen adventures. Until next time, happy cooking!