Southern Nana’s Meatloaf Recipe

 Southern Nana’s Meatloaf Recipe

Here’s a cozy, nostalgic classic straight from Grandma’s kitchen — **Southern Nana’s Meatloaf Recipe** — full of rich flavor, tender texture, and that sweet, tangy glaze we all know and love.

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## 🥩🍽️ Southern Nana’s Meatloaf – A Homestyle Comfort Classic

Nothing says “home” like a slice of old-fashioned meatloaf. This **Southern-style meatloaf** is everything you want it to be: **moist, savory, and packed with flavor**, thanks to a few time-tested tricks passed down through generations. It’s simple, satisfying, and makes the perfect hearty meal for the whole family — especially with creamy mashed potatoes on the side.

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## 🧾 Ingredients

### For the Meatloaf:

* **2 lbs ground beef** (80/20 for best moisture)

* **1 cup milk**

  *Softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the loaf moist*

* **1 cup plain breadcrumbs** (or crushed saltines)

* **2 large eggs**

  *Acts as a binder*

* **1 small onion**, finely diced

* **½ green bell pepper**, finely diced *(optional for that Southern twist)*

* **3 cloves garlic**, minced

* **1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce**

* **2 tbsp ketchup**

* **1 tsp salt**

* **½ tsp black pepper**

* **½ tsp paprika**

* **½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning**

### For the Glaze:

* **½ cup ketchup**

* **2 tbsp brown sugar**

* **1 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard**

* **1 tbsp apple cider vinegar** *(optional for tang)*

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## 👩‍🍳 Instructions

### 🔹 1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Line a loaf pan with foil or lightly grease it.

### 🔹 2. Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine milk and breadcrumbs. Let sit for 2–3 minutes until absorbed.

Add the **eggs, onion, pepper, garlic, Worcestershire, ketchup, and seasonings**. Stir well.

Add ground beef and mix gently by hand just until combined. **Don’t overmix**, or it’ll be tough.

### 🔹 3. Shape & Bake

Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it freeform on a baking sheet.

Bake uncovered for **40 minutes**.

### 🔹 4. Make the Glaze

While baking, mix together all glaze ingredients in a small bowl.

After 40 minutes, spread glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Return to oven and bake an additional **15–20 minutes**, or until internal temperature reaches **160°F (71°C)**.

Let rest for **10 minutes** before slicing.

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## 🍽️ Serving Suggestions

* **Classic sides**: Mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob, or collard greens

* **Leftovers**: Make meatloaf sandwiches with mayo, pickles, and a soft white bun

* **Southern-style plate**: Serve with mac & cheese and baked beans for a true comfort combo

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## 💡 Pro Tips

* **Use a mix of beef and pork** for even more flavor and tenderness.

* **Finely chop veggies** so they blend into the meat without making it chunky.

* **Rest before slicing** so juices redistribute and keep it moist.

* Make ahead: You can assemble the loaf 1 day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.