Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe – Homestyle Cooking At Its Best!

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I want to share with you a recipe that has become a favorite in households across the country – Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf. This is the best meatloaf recipe you’ll ever find, packed with savory flavors and made with love. If you’re craving a delicious homemade meatloaf that tastes like it came straight from Southern comfort, then this recipe is for you!

Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf recipe is a classic that never fails to impress. It’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor. With just a few easy steps, you can create a meatloaf that will leave your family and friends wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof.

The key to this delicious meatloaf is in the ingredients. It includes a blend of ground beef, onion, bell pepper, tomato sauce, and a mix of spices and herbs. The meatloaf is then shaped and baked in the oven to perfection, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. The recipe even includes a tangy ketchup and tomato sauce glaze that takes the flavor profile to the next level.

Not only is this meatloaf easy to make and flavorful, but it also allows for ingredient substitutions. You can personalize the recipe by using oats instead of breadcrumbs or ground turkey instead of ground beef. This flexibility makes it suitable for everyone’s dietary preferences and restrictions.

Key Takeaways:

• Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf recipe is a homestyle classic that never disappoints.
• This recipe is easy to make and packed with savory flavors.
• It offers the flexibility to customize ingredients to suit different preferences and dietary needs.
• The tangy ketchup and tomato sauce glaze add an extra burst of flavor to the meatloaf.
• Pair the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or creamed peas for a complete and satisfying meal.

Easy Steps to Make Brenda Gantt Meatloaf

Creating Brenda Gantt’s authentic meatloaf is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple cooking instructions and meatloaf preparation steps to enjoy a hearty and flavorful dish.

Gathering the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. You will need:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1/2 cup of minced onion
• 1/4 cup of chopped bell pepper
• 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup of crushed crackers or corn flakes crumbs
• 1 tablespoon of mustard
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of herbs de Provence
• 1 tablespoon of onion soup mix
• 1 tablespoon of Ranch powder
• 1/4 cup of milk

Mixing and Shaping the Meatloaf

Once you have all the ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced onion, and chopped bell pepper. Add the tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, eggs, crushed crackers or corn flakes crumbs, mustard, garlic powder, herbs de Provence, onion soup mix, Ranch powder, and milk. Mix everything together, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a denser meatloaf.

Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a greased broiler pan or baking dish. To create a well in the center of the meatloaf for the ketchup and tomato sauce mixture, use a spoon or your fingers to make a slight indentation. This will help the sauce stay in place while the meatloaf bakes.

Baking and Serving

Next, prepare the ketchup and tomato sauce mixture by combining 1/2 cup of ketchup and 1/4 cup of tomato sauce in a small bowl. Pour the mixture into the well in the center of the meatloaf.

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Cooking times may vary, so it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this classic Southern dish with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf recipe is a true delight that brings together a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you’re a fan of classic, homestyle cooking or simply looking for a delicious and comforting dish, this meatloaf recipe won’t disappoint. The combination of ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and a variety of seasonings creates a savory, flavorful experience that is sure to please your taste buds.

One of the best things about Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf recipe is its versatility. You can easily make ingredient substitutions based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef. If you’re out of breadcrumbs, oats can be a great substitute. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations of the recipe!

When it comes to storing leftovers, it’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines. After allowing the meatloaf to cool, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftovers can be enjoyed for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the slices in a microwave-safe dish and warm them up in the microwave. Alternatively, you can wrap the slices in foil and heat them in the oven at a low temperature until they are heated through.

To accompany your delicious meatloaf, consider serving it with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or creamy peas. The creamy textures and flavors of these dishes complement the meatloaf perfectly and create a well-rounded meal that will satisfy your cravings.