Easy Southern Meatloaf – A Savory and Comforting Classic That Will Make Your Taste Buds Sing

If you're yearning for a hearty meal that brings the warmth of Southern cooking straight to your table, Easy Southern Meatloaf is the dish for you. This mouthwatering recipe combines tender ground beef with a medley of flavorful ingredients, resulting in a meatloaf that's juicy, delicious, and utterly satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or when you need a comforting meal, this meatloaf is simple to make yet delivers big on taste. Each slice is packed with savory goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Scroll to the bottom for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Easy Southern Meatloaf

There's nothing quite like a homemade meatloaf to evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Rooted in Southern culinary traditions, this recipe takes the humble meatloaf to new heights by incorporating ingredients like crushed crackers, tangy Dijon mustard, and a rich ketchup-mustard glaze. The result is a flavorful dish that's both familiar and refreshingly delightful. It's the kind of meal that reminds you of leisurely Sunday dinners and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Why Easy Southern Meatloaf Will Become a Family Favorite

This meatloaf stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef with finely crushed crackers creates a tender, moist loaf. The addition of sour cream adds creaminess, while the Worcestershire sauce and dry minced onion infuse the meat with depth and savoriness. The ketchup-mustard glaze caramelizes as it bakes, forming a slightly sweet, tangy crust that complements the savory meat perfectly. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and busy families.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 1g

This hearty meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To complete your Southern feast, serve this meatloaf with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttery corn on the cob. A fresh garden salad or coleslaw can add a crisp contrast to the rich meatloaf. For beverages, sweet iced tea or a robust red wine would complement the flavors nicely. And if you have room for dessert, consider a slice of pecan pie or peach cobbler to round out the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze the meatloaf: wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Fun Fact: The Meatloaf's Journey to Southern Tables

Meatloaf has been a staple in American households since the late 19th century, evolving from scrapple—a mixture of ground pork and cornmeal. It became particularly popular during the Great Depression as a way to stretch inexpensive meats into a filling meal. In the South, cooks added their own twists, incorporating local flavors and ingredients, which led to the delicious versions we enjoy today.

Cooking Tips

• Mix Gently: Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Combine the ingredients until they're just blended.
• Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain its juices when you slice it.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Optional Variations

• Cheesy Surprise: Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese in the middle of the meatloaf for a gooey center.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• BBQ Twist: Substitute the ketchup-mustard glaze with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.

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Easy Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef (preferably chuck)
• 1 cup finely crushed saltine crackers
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon dry minced onion
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard

Optional Ingredients:

• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• A pinch of brown sugar (to add to the glaze for sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, beaten eggs, sour cream, dry minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are just combined.
3. Shape the loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish. Shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long and 4 inches wide, ensuring it's evenly formed for consistent cooking.
4. Bake the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
5. Prepare the glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, stir together the ketchup and yellow mustard in a small bowl. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a pinch of brown sugar and mix until dissolved.
6. Glaze the meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Carefully drain any excess grease from the pan using a spoon or baster. Spread the ketchup-mustard glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Finish baking: Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the glaze to set and caramelize slightly.
8. Rest and serve: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat. Slice and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Final Thoughts

Easy Southern Meatloaf is more than just a dish; it's a celebration of comfort and Southern hospitality. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a standout at any meal. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a hearty slice of Southern goodness that's as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.