This Country Herb Meatloaf is a comforting take on a classic beef meatloaf recipe, blending ground beef with fresh parsley, thyme, garlic, onions, eggs, breadcrumbs, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor. It’s a homestyle meatloaf that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or seasonal vegetables.
Simple to prepare yet full of rustic charm, this recipe is one of the best meatloaf recipes for a cozy family dinner. The fresh herbs provide a garden-fresh aroma, making it a healthy meatloaf option that everyone will enjoy.
Homestyle Comfort Food
Meatloaf has long been a staple in American households, offering a comforting and hearty meal that brings families together. This particular recipe showcases a classic beef meatloaf, enriched with fresh herbs and spices that elevate its flavor profile.
Ground beef serves as the foundation, combined with breadcrumbs, onions, and garlic, creating a tender and juicy loaf. The addition of Worcestershire sauce adds depth, while fresh parsley and thyme provide a burst of garden-fresh aroma. This healthy meatloaf recipe is perfect for those seeking a wholesome yet satisfying dish.
Preparation Made Simple
One of the great aspects of this easy meatloaf cooking guide is its straightforward preparation. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delightful meal that serves six. The process begins with mixing the ground beef with the other ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring everything is well combined.
Shaping the mixture into a loaf is the next step, whether using a loaf pan or forming it by hand. A glossy layer of ketchup on top adds both flavor and visual appeal, making it a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Baking to Perfection
Once shaped, the meatloaf is baked in a preheated oven until it reaches the perfect internal temperature. This usually takes about 50 to 60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The result is a beautifully baked meatloaf that is both tender and juicy, ready to be sliced and served.
Letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking is essential, as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. The glossy ketchup topping glistens invitingly, making it hard to resist.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, creating a warm and inviting dinner setting. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
For an added touch, garnish the meatloaf with fresh parsley, enhancing its visual appeal and adding a hint of freshness. This classic meatloaf recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to any dining occasion.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
Each serving of this beef meatloaf offers a balanced combination of protein and carbohydrates, making it a nutritious choice for family dinners. With approximately 320 calories per slice, it provides a hearty meal without compromising on health.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish to serve on a chilly evening or a satisfying meal for a family gathering, this homestyle meatloaf is among the best meatloaf recipes to try. Its blend of fresh herbs and classic ingredients ensures that it will become a favorite in your household.
Final Thoughts
Creating a delicious meatloaf doesn’t have to be complicated. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy a classic dish that is both flavorful and healthy. The use of fresh herbs not only enhances the taste but also adds a nutritious element to your meal.
So, gather your ingredients and prepare to impress your family with this delightful beef meatloaf, a true testament to homestyle cooking. Enjoy the process and savor the results, as this dish is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
Easy Country Herb Meatloaf Recipe
This meatloaf features ground beef mixed with fresh herbs and seasonings, shaped into a loaf, and baked to perfection. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup for topping optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add Topping: If desired, spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 slices
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g