There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of a homestyle meatloaf baking in the oven. It’s a dish that evokes memories of home, warmth, and family gatherings. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that has been a cherished part of my family for years – the Homestyle Meatloaf. This recipe has been passed down from my mother, and its origins can be traced back to an Ann Lander’s column in the 1980s. While I wasn’t an instant fan during my younger days, this classic dish has grown on me, becoming not just a favorite but a tradition I hold dear.
I distinctly remember my mom preparing this meatloaf recipe regularly while I was growing up. Back then, I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about it. However, as I grew older, my taste buds matured, and I started appreciating the intricate flavors that this recipe has to offer. One of the things I love most about this dish is its versatility. The leftovers, in my opinion, are even better. The flavors have a chance to meld and intensify, making for the perfect meatloaf sandwiches the next day. It’s amazing how time can transform our perceptions of taste, turning a once-dismissed meal into a beloved family tradition.
The Homestyle Meatloaf I make today is a direct link to my past, a connection to the love and care my mother put into her cooking. The recipe, simple yet rich in flavor, remains unchanged over the years, a testament to its timeless appeal. Just like my mom used to do, I serve this delightful meatloaf with my Homestyle Mashed Potatoes, creating a meal that’s not just about nourishment but about love, memories, and the joy of sharing a delicious home-cooked dish with those we care about.
In every bite of this Homestyle Meatloaf, I taste more than just the ingredients – I taste the love and history that come with it. It’s a reminder of the wonderful moments spent around the family table, sharing stories and laughter. I encourage you to try this recipe, not just for its delicious flavors but also for the opportunity to create your own cherished memories. Embrace the tradition, savor the taste, and let every bite take you on a journey through time and family, making your kitchen a place where generations meet, and love is served on a plate.
I like to serve this meatloaf with my Homestyle Mashed Potatoes!
Homestyle Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 eggs
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 package Lipton’s onion soup mix
- *More ketchup for the top
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Put mixture into a standard size loaf pan.
- Generously cover the top with ketchup.
- Bake one hour at 350 degrees.
I’m Jennifer Locklin, author and owner of Jennifer Cooks. I am a trained chef and passionate about good food, cooking for family and friends, and creating recipes that form lasting memories from one generation to the next.
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