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I'll never forget the first time I tried meatloaf. I was, probably, seven years old, at my grandma's house. The aroma filled the entire house with warmth and comfort. It felt like a big hug in food form. Meatloaf, in its essence, is more than just ground meat; it's a canvas for flavors, a testament to resourcefulness, and a culinary hug. This recipe, inspired by Joanna Gaines, takes that comforting classic and elevates it to something truly special. I think you are going to enjoy this recipe a lot like I do. I can't wait to see you're reaction after trying this recipe.
What sets this meatloaf apart isn't just the blend of savory flavors, but also its simplicity. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn't demand perfection; instead, it embraces the quirks and imperfections that make homemade food so endearing. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe offers a straightforward path to creating a dish that will impress your family and friends and makes them feeling loved.
I decided to try Joanna’s recipe because I needed something hearty but easy for a weeknight dinner. My fam really likes it. Plus, who doesn't love a good copycat recipe? We get to enjoy something similar to what a famous chef makes, right in our own kitchen. It makes the whole experience feel a bit more special, don't you think?
Craving comfort food? This Joanna Gaines' Homestyle Meatloaf Copycat recipe brings a delicious, family-friendly meal to your table with minimal effort. It's a savory, hearty dish that's sure to become a new favorite.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even cooking, ensuring the meatloaf is cooked through without drying out.
In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, half pound of ground pork, 1 cup of breadcrumbs (I like to use Italian seasoned), 1 small diced onion, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 large egg (lightly beaten), 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix all this ingredients together very good.
Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so be careful, OK?
In a separate small bowl, prepare the glaze. Whisk together 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This glaze adds a tangy-sweet finish that's simply irresistible.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. I always line the pan with parchment paper first – makes cleanup a breeze!
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for later. Make sure all the meatloaf surface is covered with the glaze.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
📝 Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.