There’s something incredibly comforting about the first whiff of savory goodness wafting from the oven as my Good Eats Meatloaf bakes to perfection. This dish has become a staple in my home, particularly on those chilly evenings when we crave a hearty meal. I discovered this gem during an experimental cook-off with friends, and I was amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients could transform into such a crowd-pleaser.
With a deliciously spiced base featuring garlic-flavored croutons and a hint of cayenne, this meatloaf brings flavor to the forefront while remaining incredibly easy to whip up. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, and it easily adapts to your own taste preferences—add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Are you tired of fast food and craving the warmth of homemade comfort? This flavorful meatloaf is just what you need, taking only 25 minutes of hands-on preparation before it bakes into a succulent masterpiece. Let’s roll up our sleeves and create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why is Good Eats Meatloaf a Must-Try?
Comforting aroma: The heavenly scent that fills your kitchen while this meatloaf cooks will make your mouth water.
Easy to make: With just 25 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful twist: Garlic-flavored croutons and a bit of cayenne add a delicious kick that sets it apart from traditional recipes.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a meal everyone will love.
Crowd-pleasing: With enough to serve 6 to 8, it’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings—no one can resist a second helping!
Good Eats Meatloaf Ingredients
For the Meat Mixture
• Garlic-flavored croutons – these add a unique flavor and help bind the meatloaf.
• Ground chuck – a balanced fat content ensures a juicy meatloaf.
• Ground sirloin – leaner than chuck, providing a great texture.
• Egg – acts as a binder while enhancing the moisture.
• Kosher salt – essential for bringing out all the savory flavors.
For the Vegetables
• Onion – finely chopped, it adds a sweet undertone and depth.
• Carrot – helps to add subtle sweetness and moisture.
• Whole garlic cloves – minced for a robust garlic flavor.
• Red bell pepper – adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
For the Spice Blend
• Ground black pepper – enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Cayenne pepper – brings the heat, but adjust to your taste!
• Chili powder – adds warmth and complexity to the dish.
• Dried thyme – contributes an earthy aroma that marries beautifully with the meat.
• Ground cumin – a hint of smokiness elevates this dish.
For the Glaze
• Catsup – sweet and tangy, it forms a delicious glaze on top.
• Worcestershire sauce – adds a depth of flavor through umami notes.
• Hot pepper sauce – gives a kick of spice that complements the meatloaf.
• Honey – balances the tanginess with a touch of sweetness.
This Good Eats Meatloaf is a versatile dish that welcomes your personal touch, whether you want to switch up the veggies or the spices!
How to Make Good Eats Meatloaf
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Preheat: Start by heating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden crust.
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Process Croutons: In a food processor, combine the garlic-flavored croutons, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and dried thyme. Pulse until you achieve a fine texture, then place this mixture in a large bowl.
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Chop Vegetables: Add the onion, carrot, garlic, and red bell pepper to the food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed—look for a nice, chunky consistency.
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Mix Ingredients: In the large bowl with the crouton mixture, combine the chopped vegetables, ground sirloin, and ground chuck. Season with kosher salt, then add the egg and mix thoroughly, avoiding the urge to squeeze the meat.
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Shape the Loaf: Pack the meat mixture firmly into a 10-inch loaf pan to mold it into shape. Make sure it holds together nicely!
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Transfer and Probe: Carefully turn the molded meatloaf onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Insert a temperature probe at a 45-degree angle into the center of the meatloaf without touching the tray. Set it to beep at 155°F (68°C).
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Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the catsup, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, and honey. After 10 minutes of baking, brush this warm glaze over the top of the meatloaf to give it a beautifully caramelized finish.
Optional: Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Good Eats Meatloaf are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the meat mixture (croutons, ground chuck, ground sirloin, vegetables, egg, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate it. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also saves you precious minutes on cooking day. If you want to prep even earlier, the unbaked meatloaf can be formed and wrapped tightly, then frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking and brush on the glaze just prior to serving. Rest assured, your meatloaf will remain just as delicious and succulent!
Expert Tips for Good Eats Meatloaf
Avoid Soggy Meatloaf: Ensure croutons are finely processed to absorb moisture without making the mixture too wet.
Mix Gently: Combine the meat and ingredients lightly to maintain a tender texture—overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Check Temperature: Insert a temperature probe into the meatloaf to avoid undercooking; aim for an internal temperature of 155°F (68°C) for safe and juicy results.
Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your preferences, but remember, less is often more to avoid overwhelming flavors.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow your meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist when sliced.
These tips will ensure your Good Eats Meatloaf comes out flavorful and satisfying every time!
Good Eats Meatloaf Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and elevate this dish with enticing customizations.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the croutons with gluten-free varieties to make a lactose-free version that everyone can enjoy.
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Veggie-Packed: Add 1 cup of finely diced mushrooms to the meat mixture for an extra layer of umami and moisture.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a zesty heat that will tantalize your taste buds and spice things up!
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Herb-Infused: Swap dried thyme for a blend of fresh rosemary and parsley to freshen the flavor profile and add a burst of color.
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BBQ Twist: Use barbecue sauce instead of catsup for the glaze to impart a smoky sweetness that complements the meatloaf’s richness.
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Egg-Free: Flax eggs work perfectly as a binding agent—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes.
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Italian Flair: Add Italian seasoning and swap red bell pepper for sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful Mediterranean twist.
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Meat Mix: Try a combination of ground turkey or chicken with beef for a leaner meatloaf that still delivers delicious satisfaction.
How to Store and Freeze Good Eats Meatloaf
Fridge: Store your leftover Good Eats Meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious flavor and moisture.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Slicing: For best results, slice the meatloaf before freezing, allowing for quicker reheating and easy portion control.
What to Serve with Good Eats Meatloaf?
To elevate your dinner table, consider these delightful accompaniments that pair beautifully with the comforting essence of meatloaf.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Their rich creaminess complements the savory meatloaf perfectly while providing a smooth contrast in texture. -
Garlicky Green Beans:
The tender crunch and subtle garlic flavor balance the hearty meatloaf, freshly brightening your plate. -
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables:
Colorful and nutritious, they add sweetness and a lovely roasted flavor, harmonizing with the meatloaf’s spices. -
Classic Coleslaw:
Crisp and tangy, coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that cuts through the meatloaf’s richness for a well-rounded meal. -
Homemade Mac and Cheese:
Creamy, cheesy goodness pairs wonderfully with meatloaf, creating a comforting embrace of childhood nostalgia. -
Honey-Glazed Carrots:
The natural sweetness adds a pop of color and flavor that wonderfully contrasts with the savory meatloaf. -
Caesar Salad:
Crisp romaine and a tangy dressing provide a refreshing bite, balancing the heartiness of the meatloaf. -
Cornbread:
This slightly sweet, buttery bread is a delightful sidekick, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce from the meatloaf. -
Wine or Sparkling Cider:
A glass of red wine or bubbly cider enhances your dining experience, adding an elegant touch that complements the flavors of the meal.
With these sides, your Good Eats Meatloaf dinner will transform into a delightful feast!
Good Eats Meatloaf Recipe FAQs
What kind of croutons should I use?
I recommend using garlic-flavored croutons for an added layer of flavor, but you can also use plain croutons if you prefer. Just consider adding extra minced garlic to maintain that delightful garlic punch!
How do I store leftover Good Eats Meatloaf?
Store your leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The key is to keep it sealed to ensure it retains its delicious flavor and moisture.
Can I freeze Good Eats Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. For easy portion control, slice it before freezing!
How should I reheat frozen meatloaf?
To reheat, thaw the meatloaf in the fridge overnight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the meatloaf for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. This helps to keep it moist and flavorful!
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If you find your meatloaf a bit dry, consider adding more moisture next time! You can include a splash of milk or beef broth into the mixture before baking. Also, make sure not to overmix, which can create a dense texture.
Is Good Eats Meatloaf safe for pets?
While it’s generally not toxic, meatloaf isn’t ideal for pets because of potential ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s best to keep this tasty dish for your family’s enjoyment only!
Deliciously Juicy Good Eats Meatloaf with Flavorful Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a food processor, combine the garlic-flavored croutons, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and dried thyme. Pulse until you achieve a fine texture, then place this mixture in a large bowl.
- Add the onion, carrot, garlic, and red bell pepper to the food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed—look for a nice, chunky consistency.
- In the large bowl with the crouton mixture, combine the chopped vegetables, ground sirloin, and ground chuck. Season with kosher salt, then add the egg and mix thoroughly carefully.
- Pack the meat mixture firmly into a 10-inch loaf pan.
- Turn the molded meatloaf onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Insert a temperature probe into the center of the meatloaf. Set it to beep at 155°F (68°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the catsup, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, and honey. After 10 minutes of baking, brush this warm glaze over the top of the meatloaf.