Classic 1950s Meatloaf (A Nostalgic Comfort Food Favorite)

⏳ Prep Time: 15 minutes | ⏳ Cook Time: 1 hour | 🍽️ Servings: 6

Description:

Few meals are as nostalgic as a classic 1950s-style meatloaf. A staple of mid-century American home cooking, this dish became a family favorite thanks to its affordability, ease of preparation, and hearty, satisfying flavor. Featuring ground beef, breadcrumbs, a savory seasoning blend, and a signature sweet-and-tangy ketchup glaze, this retro favorite is still a go-to comfort meal today. 🍽️🍖🥔

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 large eggs, beaten

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, and beaten eggs.
3. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 2: Shape & Bake

4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place in the prepared pan or baking sheet.
5. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Classic Glaze

6. While the meatloaf bakes, mix ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
7. After 40 minutes, brush the glaze over the meatloaf and return to the oven for 15-20 more minutes, until caramelized and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

8. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered corn for the full nostalgic experience!

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

• Use half beef, half pork for extra juiciness.
• Swap breadcrumbs for oats for an even more authentic vintage touch.
• Add shredded cheese inside for a 1960s-style cheese-stuffed meatloaf.