Print

Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 554 reviews

This classic Southern Meatloaf recipe features a flavorful and moist blend of ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a tangy, sweet glaze. It’s baked to perfection and delivers a comforting, home-cooked meal with a perfect balance of spices and richness.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended for tenderness)
  • 1 medium onion (finely diced)
  • 1 green bell pepper (finely diced; use jalapenos for spicier)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup crushed saltine crackers (or Ritz crackers or bread crumbs)
  • 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne or dash of hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or foil for an easier cleanup process.
  2. Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  3. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, crushed crackers, lightly beaten eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Gently mix with your hands just until combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Shape & Bake: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape either directly on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a loaf pan. Place a small pan filled with water in the oven to help keep the meatloaf moist while baking. Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F.
  5. Add the Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard (if using), and a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce (if desired). After the initial 45 minutes, brush half of this glaze over the meatloaf.
  6. Finish Baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Drain any excess grease if desired.
  7. Glaze Again & Rest: Brush the remaining glaze over the cooked meatloaf. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure moist slices and clean cutting. Serve and enjoy your Southern classic!

Notes

  • Using 80/20 ground beef ensures a juicy and tender meatloaf.
  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense, tough texture.
  • A water pan in the oven during baking helps maintain moisture inside the meatloaf.
  • The glaze can be adjusted for heat by adding more cayenne or hot sauce based on your preference.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is key for moist, well-set slices.

Keywords: Southern Meatloaf, classic meatloaf recipe, baked meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef meatloaf, meatloaf glaze

Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/southern-meatloaf-recipe/