There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of Stovetop Meatloaf wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender, savory meat, infused with spices and herbs, sizzling away in a pan. The moment you cut into it, the juicy interior practically begs for mashed potatoes on the side and a slathering of tangy ketchup on top.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served warm on a plate. Think back to those cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone dug in for seconds. Stovetop Meatloaf is perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back Sunday dinner, promising to deliver a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Stovetop Meatloaf offers an easy preparation method, making weeknight meals less stressful
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory spices with the sweetness of caramelized onions
- The visually appealing presentation makes it a showstopper for any table
- Plus, its versatility allows for endless ingredient swaps based on your pantry staples
I remember the first time I made this meatloaf for my friends; their eyes lit up like kids in a candy store when they took their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 blend for juiciness without being overly greasy.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs to add texture and help bind the meat.
Eggs: These act as a binder; fresh eggs give the best results.
Ketchup: Sweet and tangy, it brings moisture and flavor—plus, it’s great on top.
Onion: Finely chopped; it adds depth and sweetness when cooked down.
Garlic Powder: A pinch elevates the flavors without overwhelming other ingredients.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Parsley: Fresh or dried adds a pop of color and freshness to the mix.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Stovetop Meatloaf
Start by gathering your ingredients and tools: a large mixing bowl, a frying pan, and an oven-safe baking dish if needed.
Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley until well mixed but not overworked.
Sauté Onions: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling.
Shape Your Loaf: Once cooled slightly, fold sautéed onions into your meat mixture. Form into a loaf shape that fits nicely in your frying pan.
Cook Your Loaf: Heat some oil in the same pan over medium-high heat. Place your shaped meatloaf carefully into the skillet; cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.
Add Sauce & Bake (optional): If you want extra flavor, spread more ketchup on top before transferring it to an oven-safe dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
Enjoy this delightful Stovetop Meatloaf hot from the pan or let it rest before slicing to serve!
You Must Know
- Stovetop Meatloaf is a lifesaver for weeknight dinners
- It brings comfort food to your table in under an hour, and the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible
- The best part?
- You can customize it to suit anyone’s taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatloaf on the stovetop for added flavor, then cover and simmer to keep it juicy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on low heat for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a moist meatloaf, don’t skip the egg; it binds ingredients well
- Watch your cooking time closely—overcooking dries it out
- Let it rest before slicing; this keeps juices intact and enhances flavor
Sharing my first attempt at stovetop meatloaf always brings a smile; my friend declared it competition-worthy after just one bite!
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in stovetop meatloaf?
Yes, ground turkey works well but may require more seasoning for flavor.
How long does stovetop meatloaf take to cook?
It usually takes about 30-40 minutes on medium heat to cook thoroughly.
Is stovetop meatloaf healthy?
It can be healthy by using lean meats and adding vegetables for extra nutrients.
Delicious Stovetop Meatloaf
Experience the heartwarming aroma of stovetop meatloaf, a comforting classic that brings family and friends together. This savory dish combines tender ground beef with caramelized onions and a hint of garlic, all topped with tangy ketchup. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make meatloaf ensures a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying/Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley until just mixed.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
- Fold sautéed onions into the meat mixture and shape into a loaf.
- In the same pan, cook the meatloaf for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.
- For added flavor, spread ketchup on top and bake in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers for variety. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices.
