Mother’s Meatloaf – A Classic Homestyle Recipe (VRP 096)

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This “Mother’s Meatloaf” is a hearty, traditional dish that combines the comforting flavors of ground meat, sausage, and simple seasonings. With its blend of ground beef and sausage, this meatloaf is rich in flavor and has a tender texture, thanks to adding breadcrumbs soaked in liquid. A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, while garlic salt, salt, and pepper season the meat perfectly. It’s a classic, no-fuss meatloaf recipe passed down through generations, with a note that suggests the recipe can be halved for smaller servings, making it adaptable for any family size.

Mother’s Meatloaf

Food History

Meatloaf has been a staple in American homes for well over a century, though its roots can be traced back to Europe. Traditional German, Scandinavian, and Italian recipes use ground meat in combination with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. In Germany, a similar dish known as Hackbraten is often made with a combination of ground meat and sausage, much like this recipe.

Meatloaf gained significant popularity in the United States during the Great Depression when stretching ground meat with fillers like breadcrumbs or oatmeal became a practical way to feed families on a budget. By the mid-20th century, it became a beloved comfort food in American households, appearing in many family recipe boxes, including this one.

Explore more of our Meatloaf Recipes and Dinner Recipes to bring a taste of tradition to your table!

Timeline

• 18th Century: Early versions of meatloaf appear in European cuisine, particularly in Germany and Italy, using a mix of ground meat, fillers, and seasonings.
• Early 20th Century: Meatloaf becomes popular in the United States, particularly during the Great Depression, when it was an economical way to stretch meat supplies.
• 1950s-1960s: Meatloaf becomes a staple of American home cooking, featured in community cookbooks and family dinners.
• Present Day: Meatloaf remains a beloved comfort food, with countless variations reflecting regional and family traditions.

Recipe Discussion

This meatloaf recipe is a classic version that uses a combination of ground beef (or ground pork shoulder) and sausage for a rich, flavorful base. The addition of crumbled bread (bröt) soaked in liquid helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender while providing structure. The use of simple seasonings like garlic salt, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce gives the meatloaf a savory, well-balanced flavor that appeals to a wide range of palates.

One interesting element of this recipe is the use of bröt, which is German for bread. The reference to wet and crumbed bread suggests that this recipe may have some German influence, which would make sense given the origins of meatloaf in German cuisine. Soaking the bread in liquid before adding it to the meat mixture ensures that it blends well with the ground meats, contributing to a moist and flavorful loaf.

The recipe calls for baking the meatloaf at 325°F for about an hour, though there is some flexibility in the cooking time, as indicated by the “plus or minus” note. It’s a simple, straightforward method, allowing the flavors of the meat and seasonings to come together as the loaf bakes.

Preparation Tips

• Soak the Bread: Be sure to soak the bread thoroughly before crumbling it into the meat mixture. This helps keep the meatloaf moist and prevents it from becoming dry or tough during baking.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf. Gently mix the ingredients just until combined to ensure a tender texture.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should reach 160°F to ensure the ground meat is fully cooked.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.

Recommended Kitchen Items

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• Meat Thermometer: A digital meat thermometer ensures your meatloaf is cooked to the proper temperature, preventing undercooking or overcooking.
• Loaf Pan: A sturdy, non-stick loaf pan helps the meatloaf keep its shape and makes for easy cleanup.
• Mixing Bowls: A set of large mixing bowls is essential for combining the ingredients without spilling or crowding.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic meatloaf pairing that’s both hearty and comforting.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a balanced meal.
• Gravy: A rich gravy poured over the top of the meatloaf enhances the savory flavors and adds extra moisture.

October 18th is National Meatloaf Day—time to celebrate the ultimate comfort food! Whether you like it classic or with a twist, it’s the perfect day to serve a slice of nostalgia.

View all Food Holidays.

A Timeless Comfort Food

Mother’s Meatloaf is the definition of a comforting, homestyle meal that’s simple to prepare and rich in flavor. The blend of ground meat, sausage, and seasoned breadcrumbs creates a tender, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for family dinners. This recipe, with its German influence and straightforward ingredients, is a reminder of how timeless and versatile meatloaf can be. Whether served with traditional sides like mashed potatoes or paired with roasted vegetables, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit at any table.

Vintage Recipe Box 96

The box this meatloaf recipe was in contained many fun recipes. Click here to view all of Vintage Recipe Box 96’s recipes.

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Meatloaf Recipe