Homestyle Southern Meatloaf with Vegetables

Homestyle Southern Meatloaf with Vegetables

Nothing brings warmth to the table quite like a thick slice of homemade Homestyle Southern Meatloaf with Vegetables. This dish is a nostalgic, hearty classic—loaded with savory ground meat, tender bell peppers, onions, celery, and perfectly seasoned with herbs and spices. It’s moist, flavorful, and boasts a golden crust that’s lightly caramelized from baking. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or holiday feasts, this meatloaf is both wholesome and satisfying. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side of gravy. This is comfort food at its best—simple, filling, and full of love.

📝 Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

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• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

• 1 cup milk

• 2 eggs

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• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• ½ teaspoon thyme (optional)

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• ½ cup ketchup (for topping, optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery in a small amount of oil for about 5–7 minutes, or until softened.

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   • Add the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

2. Mix the Meatloaf:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme.

   • Use your hands or a large spoon to mix gently until all ingredients are just combined—do not overmix or the loaf may become dense.

3. Shape and Bake:

   • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.

   • Smooth the top and, if desired, spread a layer of ketchup over the loaf for a sweet and tangy glaze.

   • Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Rest and Serve:

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   • Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

   • This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the slices moist and flavorful.

🍴 Conclusion

This Homestyle Southern Meatloaf with Vegetables is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with hearty satisfaction. The finely chopped vegetables melt into the meat, creating depth of flavor and moisture in every bite. It’s a great way to feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day—simply reheat and serve with your favorite sides. From casual dinners to holiday spreads, this meatloaf is a beloved classic that stands the test of time. Homemade, simple, and deeply comforting—you can’t go wrong with this dish.