Why You’ll Love this Buttermilk Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re looking for a comfort food that’s both hearty and flavorful, this Buttermilk Meatloaf recipe is a must-try.
I love how it combines the richness of ground beef and pork, creating a satisfying texture. The buttermilk adds a tangy depth that makes each bite unforgettable.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The caramelized ketchup and brown sugar topping gives it a sweet finish that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Trust me, once you taste this meatloaf, it’ll quickly become a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients of Buttermilk Meatloaf
When it comes to making Buttermilk Meatloaf, the ingredients play a significant role in creating that delicious, comforting dish we all crave. This recipe combines the heartiness of ground meats with the tangy goodness of buttermilk, and it’s all brought together with some simple yet flavorful ingredients.
You might think meatloaf is just a hodgepodge of whatever’s in the fridge, but trust me, this recipe is a game-changer. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip this up.
Here’s the list of ingredients for Buttermilk Meatloaf:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork or 1/2 lb sausage
- 2/3 cup dried breadcrumbs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup onion, minced
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 slices bread
Now, a little note about the ingredients. Feel free to get creative with your meat choices! While the classic combo is ground beef and pork, you could use turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option.
And don’t worry if you don’t have buttermilk on hand; you can easily make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. It’ll give you that same tangy flavor we love.
Also, if you’re not a fan of onions or carrots, you can swap them out for other veggies or even leave them out altogether. The beauty of meatloaf is its versatility. Just remember, the key is in the mix, so have fun with it!
How to Make Buttermilk Meatloaf
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients for the Buttermilk Meatloaf, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious dish. First things first, preheat that oven to 350 degrees F. Trust me, you want your meatloaf to bake perfectly, and starting with a hot oven is vital.
While that’s warming up, grab a bread pan and grease it up a bit. Then, line the bottom with those 3 slices of bread. It’s like giving your meatloaf a cozy little bed to rest on while it cooks away.
Alright, now we’re diving into the mixing part, and I’ve to say, this is where the magic happens. Take your 2/3 cup of dried breadcrumbs and soak them in 1 cup of buttermilk for about 5 minutes. Just let them get nice and soggy—this will add moisture to your meatloaf.
Once that’s done, it’s time to stir in 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and those 2 beaten eggs. It’s starting to smell good already, isn’t it?
Next, gently fold in your 1 lb of lean ground beef, 1/2 lb of ground pork (or sausage if you’re feeling adventurous), along with the minced 1/4 cup of onion and the grated small carrot. Mix it all together until everything is well combined, but try not to overdo it—nobody likes a tough meatloaf.
Once your mixture is nicely blended, shape it into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Flatten the top because, let’s face it, nobody wants a lumpy meatloaf.
Now, for the fun part—combine the 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup of ketchup in a small bowl. You’ll pour half of this sweet and tangy sauce over the meatloaf before popping it in the oven.
Bake it for 30 minutes, and then brush the remaining sauce on top and bake for another 30 minutes. Your kitchen is going to smell like comfort food heaven.
When it’s done, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This is pivotal! It allows the juices to redistribute, making sure each slice is packed with flavor.
After that, remove it from the pan, discard the bread (which has done its job soaking up the drippings), slice it up, and serve it to your family or friends. They won’t believe how good it is, and you’ll be the star of the dinner table.
Buttermilk Meatloaf Substitutions & Variations
While traditional buttermilk meatloaf is a classic comfort dish, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. If you’re vegan, substitute the meat with lentils or chickpeas and use flax eggs. You can also swap buttermilk for plant-based milk mixed with a little vinegar.
Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Change up the spices—smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can give your meatloaf a unique twist!
The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Buttermilk Meatloaf
Serving buttermilk meatloaf can be a delightful experience, especially when you pair it with the right sides.
I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up all the delicious juices. Roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts add a nice touch of sweetness and color to the plate.
A fresh garden salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the meatloaf perfectly. For something a bit heartier, consider baked macaroni and cheese; it’s always a hit!
And don’t forget a slice of warm, crusty bread to round out the meal. Enjoy your feast!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your buttermilk meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, I recommend using high-quality meat and fresh ingredients.
Don’t hesitate to customize the flavor by adding your favorite herbs or spices. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey for beef.
For added moisture, consider using a splash of broth in the mixture. Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is essential; it helps maintain juiciness.
Finally, if you have leftovers, they make fantastic sandwiches the next day! Enjoy your cooking adventure, and I hope this meatloaf becomes a family favorite!