How to Make Southern Meatloaf

It is important to know how to make southern meatloaf! It is the epitome of comfort food and a staple of Southern good cooking. There are countless Southern Meatloaf recipes that exist and probably none greater than the homemade recipe a person grows up with. This article will show you how to make the typical Southern Meatloaf and give you options for how to create a memorable and specific homemade southern meatloaf for your family. Be creative, try it out several ways to create your ultimate family Southern Meatloaf favorite. **This recipe makes approximately 8 portions.

Things You'll Need

• 2 lbs Ground Beef, Veal, Lamb or Pork
• 1/2 cup - 1 cup plain bread crumbs (fresh, if possible)
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 -2 eggs lightly beaten
• salt/black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 2-4 slices of bacon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

1. 

   PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 150 DEGREES F - Keep in mind most ovens take about 20 minutes to preheat, so plan accordingly.

2. 

   ASSESS THE OPTIONAL INGREDIENTS AND CHOOSE A MIX THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU - As mentioned in the introduction, how to make Southern Meatloaf differs widely from family to family. Look through the possible ingredients and choose something which caters to your family's unique taste.

   * OPTIONAL INGREDIENTS
   * 3-4 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
   * 1/3 cup Ketchup or Tomato Paste
   * Thyme
   * Oregano
   * Garlic Powder
   * Ginger
   * Green Onions/Scallions
   * Dried Mushrooms
   * Parmesan Cheese (other cheeses)
   * Cooked Veggies
   * Chiles
   * Sunflower Seeds
   * Cooked Beans
   * Almonds/Cashews
   * Cooked Greens/Spinach
   * Wine/Broth/Beer

3. 

   PREPARE THE INGREDIENTS!
   - Soak the breadcrumbs in the milk until all the milk is absorbed (or about 5 minutes)
   - Cook vegetables in butter, over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until ready.

4. 

   Add liquid ingredients, salt and pepper to vegetable mix and cool to room temperature.

5. 

   Mix together meat, veggies, eggs, breadcrumbs and any other ingredients in a large bowl.

6. 

   Shape the mixture into a loaf shape (about 4 inches high) and put into a baking pan.

7. 

   DRESS AND BASTE THE MEATLOAF - There are many amazing dressings to go with meatloaf. Some of these should be basted before entering the oven and periodically throughout, some should be poured on 20 minutes after cooking and some can be added after thoroughly cooked. If you were interested in adding bacon, the bacon halves are put on top of loaf.

   * Barbecue Sauce
   * Tomato Sauce
   * Pesto
   * Creamed Mushrooms
   * Sour Cream
   * Molasses/Sugar/Ketchup
   * Cheese Sauce

8. 

   Cook for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160-170F.

9. 

   LET COOL FOR 15 MINUTES BEFORE SERVING - Enjoy your masterpiece, get feedback on it from the family. Through time you will have found the perfect family recipe that is truly hard to replicate. Enjoy!

Tips & Warnings

• Use leftovers in sandwiches or consider using them as part of a recipe for chili or sauces.

• Consider frosting the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and topping with cheese. Put the meatloaf back into the oven for a quick melt and a fancy delicious dinner.