✔ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
✔ Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
✅ Tip: Mixing in a bowl helps keep the meatloaf juicy—avoid overmixing!
2️⃣ Make the Meatloaf Mixture
✔ In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme.
✔ Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meat!
✔ Shape into a loaf and place in the pan or on a baking sheet.
✅ For a crispier crust, bake the meatloaf free-form on a sheet instead of a pan!
3️⃣ Prepare the Glaze
✔ In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
✔ Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
✅ The glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor—key to a classic meatloaf!
4️⃣ Bake the Meatloaf
✔ Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
✔ Halfway through, spread the remaining glaze over the top.
✅ For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2-3 minutes!
5️⃣ Rest & Serve
✔ Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy!
✔ Serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread.
✅ Each bite is packed with flavor, just like Momma’s kitchen!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Turkey Meatloaf – Swap ground beef for ground turkey 🦃
🔹 Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes 🌶️
🔹 Cheesy Inside – Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar 🧀
🔹 BBQ Glaze – Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Freeze slices for up to 3 months—wrap in foil & store in a freezer bag.
✔ Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
✅ Perfect for meal prep—tastes even better the next day!
🏆 Final Thoughts: A Classic Meatloaf Recipe to Keep Forever!
This Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf is a timeless family favorite—moist, tender, and packed with nostalgic flavors. Whether it’s for a Sunday dinner or weeknight meal, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and full of love!
💡 Will you try this recipe? Let me know your favorite meatloaf side dish! 🍞🥩
