Sylvia’s Meatloaf Recipe That Everyone Will Love

Meatloaf is a true comfort food classic, and Sylvia’s Meatloaf Recipe takes this timeless dish to heartwarming new heights. Perfectly seasoned, moist, and packed with rich flavors, this recipe is a family favorite that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy Sunday gathering, Sylvia’s meatloaf delivers satisfying, hearty goodness with every bite.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity combined with thoughtful ingredients that create a tender texture and a delicious glaze on top. If you’ve ever struggled with dry or bland meatloaf, Sylvia’s method offers a foolproof way to get it just right.

It’s easy to make, uses pantry staples, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Ready to impress your loved ones?

Let’s dive into the details of Sylvia’s Meatloaf Recipe and learn how to make this comforting classic your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sylvia’s Meatloaf is all about balancing flavor, texture, and ease. Here are some reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

• Juicy and Tender: Combining ground beef with breadcrumbs soaked in milk ensures the meatloaf stays moist and tender.
• Perfectly Seasoned: Onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of herbs create a savory, well-rounded taste.
• Flavorful Glaze: The tangy tomato-based glaze on top caramelizes during baking, adding a sweet and savory finish.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find items, making it accessible for every cook.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable for family preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean for best flavor and juiciness)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky flavor)
• For the glaze:
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl – to combine all ingredients
• Baking dish or loaf pan – for shaping and baking meatloaf
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or your hands – for thorough mixing
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping onions and garlic
• Small bowl – for mixing the glaze
• Aluminum foil (optional) – for covering meatloaf if needed

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate heat helps cook the meatloaf evenly without drying it out.
2. Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In your large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this soak for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid and become soft.
3. Add the ground beef to the soaked breadcrumbs. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine without compacting the meat too much.
4. Mix in the chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to blend everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix, or your meatloaf may become tough.
5. Shape the mixture into a loaf: Transfer to your baking dish or loaf pan, shaping it into a classic loaf shape, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
6. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
7. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize during baking, adding flavor and moisture.
8. Bake the meatloaf: Place in the preheated oven and cook for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the top browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.
9. Rest the meatloaf: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moist slices.
10. Slice and serve: Cut into 1-inch thick slices and enjoy with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

“Moisture is key to a great meatloaf. Don’t skip soaking the breadcrumbs in milk!”

• Mix gently: Overworking the meat can make it dense. Combine ingredients just until blended.
• Try different meats: Substitute half the ground beef with ground pork or turkey for a different flavor and texture.
• Add veggies: Finely diced bell peppers or shredded carrots can sneak in extra nutrition without compromising taste.
• Cheese lovers: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella inside the meatloaf for a melty surprise.
• Glaze alternatives: Swap ketchup glaze for BBQ sauce or a tomato-basil sauce for a twist.
• Make ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh the next day.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Sylvia’s Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides to round out a comforting meal. Here are some ideas to try:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are the ultimate companion for meatloaf.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables: Green beans, carrots, or broccoli add color and nutrition.
• Simple salad: A crisp baby spinach salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the meatloaf. Check out our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for inspiration.
• Macaroni and cheese: For a comforting, kid-friendly option, serve with creamy mac and cheese.
• Baked potatoes or sweet potatoes: A baked potato topped with sour cream and chives or spiced sweet potato wedges complement the flavors nicely.

Conclusion

Sylvia’s Meatloaf Recipe is a classic dish that brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to your table. Its juicy texture, balanced seasoning, and sweet glaze combine to create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is easy to customize and reliably delicious.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to homemade meatloaf, following Sylvia’s approach will give you fantastic results every time. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site to complement your meatloaf dinner.

Try out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a flavorful side, or enjoy a cozy bowl of Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food to start your meal. For something light and refreshing, the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas is a perfect match.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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