Mama's Meatloaf

Few dishes evoke childhood memories and cozy family suppers quite like a classic meatloaf. This time-honored favorite is all about comfort—a tender, flavorful loaf lovingly packed with wholesome ingredients. Crafted with Hickory Nut Gap grassfed ground beef, Mama’s meatloaf brings that familiar sense of home to your table, reminding us that simple, well-made food can offer the greatest comforts of all. 

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both satisfying and foolproof, this easy meatloaf dinner is the one to try. 

Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf 

• Classic Comfort Food: This meatloaf has all the familiar flavors you know and love with just the right touch of freshness. 
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. 
• Hickory Nut Gap Flavor: Our rich, pasture-raised grassfed beef brings an exceptional depth of taste to this dish. 

Ingredients for Mama’s Meatloaf 

Meatloaf Base 

• 1.5 pounds Hickory Nut Gap grassfed ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 cup whole milk 
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 
• ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh basil, minced) 
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt 
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard powder 
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1 large egg 
• ¾ cup plain bread crumbs (choose regular or gluten-free based on preference) 
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 
• ½ cup red or green bell pepper, finely diced 

Topping (Optional) 

• Ketchup or chili sauce, for a sweet and tangy glaze 

These pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a meatloaf that boasts the perfect balance of savory, herby, and slightly sweet flavors with a tender texture. 

Step-by-Step Instructions 

Follow these simple, detailed steps to create a mouthwatering meatloaf the whole family will love. 

1. Preheat Your Oven 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, ensuring an even and consistent temperature for baking. 

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, Worcestershire sauce, basil, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and garlic powder. 
• Add the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, onion, and bell pepper to the bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense. 

3. Shape the Meatloaf 

• Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan, pressing it in gently to form an even shape. Alternatively, you can free-form the meatloaf by shaping it into a loaf on a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet (this allows for even cooking and any excess fat to drip away). 
• If using a topping, spread a thin layer of ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the loaf for added sweetness and a glossy finish. 

4. Bake to Perfection 

• Place the loaf pan or prepared baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (use a meat thermometer for accuracy). 
• Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan or on the rack for 10–15 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and flavorful. 

5. Slice and Serve 

Carefully slice the meatloaf into even portions and serve immediately. 

Serving Suggestions 

Pairing the right sides with your meatloaf can turn it into a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas to inspire your presentation:

• Mashed Potatoes & Gravy: Creamy mashed potatoes add the perfect companion to soak up every bit of flavor. 
• Butter-Poached Peas: Add a pop of sweetness and freshness to the plate with these tender green peas. 
• Roasted Vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes complement the hearty flavor of the meatloaf. 
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. 
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and buttery rolls are perfect for sopping up the meatloaf’s juices and glaze. 

Tips for a Perfect Meatloaf 

1. Use Quality Ingredients: The rich flavor of Hickory Nut Gap grassfed beef is the key to making this meatloaf extra special. Quality meat ensures tenderness and unparalleled taste. 
2. Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the ingredients just until everything is combined maintains a lighter texture. 
3. Customize the Flavor: Add some personal flair by mixing in shredded cheese, diced mushrooms, or chopped fresh parsley. 
4. Check the Temperature: An instant-read thermometer ensures the meatloaf is cooked to the perfect temperature without drying out. 

Final Thoughts 

Mama’s meatloaf has a warm, familiar charm that comes from its simplicity and satisfying flavors. With Hickory Nut Gap ground beef as the star ingredient, this dish transforms into a new family favorite packed with high-quality, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or celebrating with loved ones, there’s something profoundly comforting about this timeless classic. 

Try this recipe and savor the joy of home-cooked meals that bring everyone to the table. And don’t forget to share your creations with us using #hngrecipes—we’d love to see your take on this beloved dish!