Learn How to Make a Delicious Southern Meatloaf with a Ketchup Topping. It is a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a comforting and hearty meal that brings families together around the dinner table. This Southern classic combines juicy ground beef, savory seasonings, and a sweet, tangy ketchup topping to create a dish that is sure to become a staple in your home.
Southern meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its rich, savory flavor and a sweet, tangy ketchup topping, this dish has been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations. The combination of ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, and Worcestershire sauce creates a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for family meals and entertaining.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Savory: The blend of ground beef and seasonings creates a mouthwatering flavor.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
- Perfect for Families: A hearty meal that everyone will enjoy, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests with a homemade meatloaf that's sure to please.
If you like this Southern recipe, you may also love our Sloppy Joe Sliders or our Homemade Hot Dog Chili.
Jump to:
What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest meatloaf. The fat content ensures the meat stays moist during cooking.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together. Lightly beat it before adding.
- Onion: Finely diced onion adds sweetness and moisture to the meatloaf.
- Milk: Whole milk helps to moisten the breadcrumbs, creating a tender loaf.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Provides a light texture and helps absorb moisture, keeping the meatloaf from being too dense.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavors of the meat and seasonings.
- Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and balances the flavors.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a deep, umami flavor to the meatloaf.
- Garlic (optional): For an extra layer of flavor, add minced garlic to the meat mixture.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make: How to Make a Delicious Southern Meatloaf with a Ketchup Topping
STEP ONE: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, diced onion, ½ cup milk, panko breadcrumbs, kosher salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic (if using). Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
STEP TWO: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to a lined and greased baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf, approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
STEP THREE: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, yellow mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the topping mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
STEP FOUR: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven, spread the remaining topping over the meatloaf, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or ground pork for a different flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or quick-cooking oats.
- Milk: Replace with unsweetened almond milk or beef broth for a dairy-free option.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: Use lean ground turkey for a lower-fat version.
- Flavor: Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
How Should You Store This?
Store leftover Southern meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
Mixing with your hands ensures the ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the meat.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to keep it juicy and make slicing easier.
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until warmed through.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover ground beef to make hamburgers or this Instant Pot Lasagna Soup.
- Use extra panko breadcrumbs for breading Panko Chicken or fish.
- Use Worcestershire in a Homemade Garlic Buffalo Sauce for Chicken Wings.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
- Serve with Crispy Garlic Parmesan Green Beans or steamed broccoli for dinner.
- Enjoy with a side of Old Fashioned Skillet Cornbread for a true Southern feast.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Meatloaf muffins
- Meatloaf sliders
- Classic beef meatloaf
Related
More beef recipes you will love:
FAQ
Southern meatloaf typically includes ingredients like panko breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and a sweet and tangy ketchup topping. It's known for its flavor and moist texture, which comes from the combination of these ingredients and cooking techniques.
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, add the topping and cook as directed. You can also freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to three months and thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
To keep your meatloaf moist, use a combination of high-fat ground beef (like 80/20), add milk to the breadcrumbs, and avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking also helps retain moisture.
📖 Recipe
How to Make a Delicious Southern Meatloaf with a Ketchup Topping
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef preferably 80/20 for juiciness
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- ½ cup whole milk add up to ¾ cup if the mixture seems too dry
- 1 cup dried panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced (optional for extra flavor)
Topping
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, diced onion, ½ cup milk, panko breadcrumbs, kosher salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, gradually add up to ¼ cup more milk until the desired consistency is reached. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf, approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, yellow mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the topping mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining topping over it. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.
Nutrition
Southern meatloaf with a ketchup topping is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table.
Try it today and share your results with us!
Important Food Safety Tips
Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat. Make sure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Create a clean work area.
- Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
Comments
No Comments