Brenda Gantt's Classic Meatloaf Recipe - Simple and Comforting

Brenda Gantt's easy, old-fashioned meatloaf recipe has been passed down generations in her family. This no-fuss meatloaf is deeply flavored with sautéed onions, tangy ketchup glaze, and savory seasonings. Brenda's tips for keeping the loaf ultra moist and pairing it with the perfect sides make this comforting dish a family favorite.

Origin of Brenda Gantt's Meatloaf Recipe

Brenda Gantt learned this simple meatloaf recipe from her mother, who got it from her grandmother. Key details include:

Family Tradition

It's been made by generations of women in Brenda's family.

Simple Home-Style Cooking

The recipe focuses on comfort over complex flavor.

Rustic Home Cook's Touch

Brenda adds personal tweaks to make it her own.

Fan Favorite Dish

Everyone requests Brenda's meatloaf for family dinners.

Ingredients in Brenda Gantt's Meatloaf

Here are the simple everyday ingredients:

Ground Beef

Equal parts ground chuck and ground sirloin.

Onion and Garlic

Sauteed onions and garlic provide flavor.

Breadcrumbs

Dry breadcrumbs help bind the meat.

Eggs and Milk

Eggs and milk keep the meatloaf extra moist.

Ketchup Glaze

Sweet ketchup glaze on top adds signature tang.

How to Make Brenda Gantt's Moist Meatloaf

Follow these simple steps:

Sauté Onion and Garlic

Cook onions and garlic in oil until softened and fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, combine beef, sautéed veggies, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and seasonings.

Shape the Loaf

Form the mixture into a loaf in a baking dish or free-form on a sheet pan.

Glaze Top with Ketchup

Spread ketchup generously over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake

Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes until cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Here are Brenda's recommendations for serving her famous meatloaf:

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the juices.

Buttered Noodles

Egg noodles tossed in butter make the perfect accompaniment.

Green Beans

Green beans - fresh or frozen - balance out the meal.

Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm dinner rolls for sopping up extra sauce.

Tips for Moist Meatloaf

Brenda recommends these tips:

• Don't overmix the meat - it can get dense.
• Use equal parts chuck and sirloin for best texture.
• Resist opening the oven as it may cause cracking.
• Always let rest at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Conclusion

Brenda Gantt's homemade meatloaf recipe delivers traditional comfort food flavor thanks to its simple yet thoughtful technique. With an oniony, ketchup-glazed crust and ultra moist interior, this meatloaf never disappoints. The next time you get a hankering for old-fashioned fare, whip up Brenda's family classic.

FAQs

What types of ground beef work best?

An 80/20 blend of ground chuck and sirloin provides ideal fat ratio and texture.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

The recipe can easily be doubled for a larger loaf or halved for smaller yields.

What else can be mixed into the meatloaf?

Options like diced veggies, cheese, herbs, oats, etc. can add your own twist.

Is glazing with ketchup necessary?

The ketchup glaze provides signature flavor, color, and moisture - it's recommended.

Can meatloaf be frozen after baking?

Yes, it freezes well for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.