Easy Pantry Staples Meatloaf: A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal from Common Ingredients

When you’re in need of a hearty and satisfying meal but are short on ingredients, this Easy Pantry Staples Meatloaf is the perfect go-to. Made with simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With a savory glaze on top, each bite is packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a comforting dinner.

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The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, and basic seasonings are combined to create a juicy meatloaf, while the glaze adds just the right amount of tang and sweetness. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family meal, this meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even a fresh salad.

The History of Meatloaf: A Comfort Food with Deep Roots

Meatloaf has long been a staple dish in many households around the world, but its origins stretch far back in history. The first recorded instances of meatloaf can be traced to Ancient Rome, where minced meat was mixed with bread and wine, then cooked to form a loaf. This concept evolved over time, with different cultures adapting the basic recipe to suit local tastes and available ingredients.

In the United States, meatloaf became particularly popular during the Great Depression, when families needed to stretch their food supply. By mixing inexpensive ground meat with bread or oatmeal, they could create a larger, more filling meal that could feed multiple people. The addition of a ketchup-based glaze, now a defining feature of many American meatloaf recipes, didn’t become popular until the mid-20th century. Today, meatloaf remains a beloved comfort food, with countless variations found in kitchens across the globe.

Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe

This meatloaf recipe is made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, which means you won’t have to make any last-minute grocery store trips. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and basic seasonings creates a perfectly seasoned loaf that is juicy on the inside and topped with a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze. It’s a family favorite that both kids and adults will enjoy. Additionally, it’s easy to customize by swapping different spices or ground meats depending on what you have on hand.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Sugar: 8g

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the meatloaf in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Tips

Customize your meatloaf by using ground turkey or pork instead of beef for a lighter version. You can also mix in grated vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrients. If you prefer a thicker glaze, simply add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar to the glaze mixture before spreading it on the meatloaf.

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Easy Pantry Staples Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the glaze:

• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp deli mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, using your hands, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
3. Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, prepare the glaze by mixing together the ketchup, deli mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and paprika.
5. Brush the meatloaf with ⅓ of the glaze and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the juices run clear and the center is no longer pink.
6. Baste the meatloaf twice more during the baking process, using the remaining glaze.

This easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make a delicious, comforting meal with simple ingredients found in their pantry. It’s quick to prepare, and the savory glaze really takes it to the next level. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even on a sandwich the next day for a versatile and satisfying meal.