Introduction
Southern meatloaf is the definition of comfort food—tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. What sets it apart is the use of sautéed vegetables and a sweet-and-tangy tomato glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for best flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper in a skillet over medium heat until softened and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, and egg mixture. Mix gently just until combined.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
Whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven, spread the glaze evenly over the top, and return to the oven.
Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
How to Make
Start by cooking the onions and bell peppers to release their natural sweetness and ensure a soft texture in the finished loaf.
Mix the wet ingredients and spices separately to evenly distribute flavor without overworking the meat.
Gently combine all ingredients using your hands, stopping as soon as everything is incorporated.
Bake the meatloaf in two stages—first to cook it through, then with the glaze to create a sticky, caramelized topping.
Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing so the juices redistribute and each slice holds together.
Variations
Bacon-Wrapped: Lay strips of bacon over the meatloaf before baking for extra smoky flavor.
Spicy Southern: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper and a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Turkey Style: Substitute ground turkey for beef and add an extra tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Cheesy Twist: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, melty interior.
Tips
Always sauté vegetables before adding them to the meat mixture to avoid a crunchy texture.
Use a light hand when mixing to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
Resting the meatloaf after baking is essential to prevent it from falling apart.
If you prefer crispier edges, bake the meatloaf free-form on a baking sheet instead of in a loaf pan.
Conclusion
Southern meatloaf is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its juicy interior, flavorful vegetables, and irresistible glaze, it’s perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or even a hearty sandwich the next day.
