Grandma’s Cozy Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

My grandma’s cherished old-fashioned skillet meatloaf recipe always brings comfort to our family dinner table.

Hearty and rich, this classic dish transforms simple ingredients into something magical.

Memories of childhood dinners flood back with each slice of this nostalgic meal.

Generations have savored these robust flavors that connect us to simpler cooking traditions.

Tender meat, perfectly seasoned and cooked with love, creates a meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Crispy edges and a juicy interior make this meatloaf irresistible for anyone craving home-cooked goodness.

Grab a fork and let the deliciousness begin!

Why Everyone Loves Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

• Quick Skillet Cooking: Ditch the traditional oven method and embrace a faster, more flavorful approach with this stovetop meatloaf that browns beautifully and locks in juicy flavors.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Taste: Whip up this recipe in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Classic meatloaf with a tangy-sweet glaze brings everyone to the table, offering a nostalgic meal that satisfies both kids and adults with its familiar, hearty taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup by cooking and serving the entire meal in a single skillet, reducing dish washing and making this recipe a convenient choice for home cooks seeking efficiency.

What Goes Into Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

• Ground Beef: The heart of the meatloaf, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds deep umami and enhances meat's natural taste.
• Thyme, Smoked Paprika: Aromatic herbs and spices that give depth and complexity.

• Breadcrumbs, Milk: Help keep the meatloaf tender and prevent it from becoming dry.
• Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the mixture together.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.

• Onion, Garlic: Classic aromatics that provide a savory base.
• Ketchup, Brown Sugar, Vinegar, Mustard: Create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
• Cooking Oil: Helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning in the skillet.

How To Make Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Blend Meaty Goodness

• Ground beef
• Finely chopped onion
• Minced garlic
• Egg
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried thyme
• Smoked paprika

Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to overmix the meat.

Step 2: Shape and Sizzle

Create a flat, oval-shaped patty approximately one inch thick to perfectly fit your skillet. Heat a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet with oil over medium heat. Carefully place the meatloaf in the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms.

Step 3: Glaze and Simmer

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Vinegar
• Dijon mustard

Generously spread the tangy glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit for perfect doneness.

Step 4: Plate and Savor

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes, letting the juices redistribute. Slice into hearty portions and serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, crisp green beans, or buttered corn for a comforting, home-style meal that brings everyone to the table.

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top before serving!

Top Tips For Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

• Gentle Meat Mixing: Avoid overmixing the ground beef to keep the meatloaf tender and prevent a tough, dense texture.
• Perfect Skillet Browning: Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and beautiful golden-brown crispy edges on your meatloaf.
• Glaze Like a Pro: Brush the sweet and tangy glaze during the last cooking stage to prevent burning and create a glossy, caramelized finish.
• Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 160F for safe, perfectly cooked meat without drying out.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to develop deeper flavors and save time on cooking day.

Storage Help For Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

• Refrigerate leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
• Properly stored, the meatloaf will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Freeze extra portions for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the microwave or oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Avoid refreezing previously frozen meatloaf to maintain its best quality and food safety.

Perfect Sides For Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

• Craft Complementary Wine Pairings: Reach for a medium-bodied red wine like zinfandel or merlot that balances the rich, savory meatloaf flavors with its subtle fruitiness and smooth tannins.
• Design Hearty Side Dish Companions: Roast garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts or creamy rosemary mashed potatoes will elevate the meatloaf's rustic charm and provide delightful textural contrast.
• Prepare Zesty Condiment Accents: Whip up a tangy homemade horseradish sauce or quick pickled red onions to cut through the meatloaf's richness and add bright, refreshing notes to each bite.
• Select Craft Beer Matches: Choose an amber ale or robust porter with caramel undertones that complement the meatloaf's smoky glaze and hearty meat profile, creating a satisfying meal experience.

Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe Ideas To Try

• Spicy Southwest Meatloaf: Transform the classic recipe by adding diced jalapeños, chili powder, and cumin to the meat mixture. Top with a zesty salsa glaze instead of the traditional ketchup sauce for a bold, fiery kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Meatloaf: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano into the meat mixture. Replace the ketchup glaze with a tangy tzatziki-inspired sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and garlic.
• Mushroom and Bacon Meatloaf: Fold in sautéed mushrooms and crispy chopped bacon bits to the ground beef mixture. Create a rich red wine and mushroom gravy to replace the standard glaze, adding deep, savory complexity to the dish.
• Asian-Inspired Meatloaf: Mix in minced ginger, green onions, and soy sauce to the meat blend. Glaze with a sweet and sticky hoisin sauce, garnishing with sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions for an exciting flavor profile.

Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe Q&A

• Why use a skillet instead of an oven for meatloaf?

Skillet cooking gives a deliciously crispy exterior and helps seal in the juices, creating a more flavorful and evenly cooked meatloaf with a beautiful golden-brown crust.

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of meats. Just ensure the meat has enough fat content to keep the meatloaf moist and juicy.

• What's the secret to keeping meatloaf tender?

The key is not overmixing the meat and soaking breadcrumbs in milk, which helps create a softer, more tender texture. Gentle mixing prevents the meat from becoming tough and dense.

• How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160F (70C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through while remaining juicy and flavorful.

Old-Fashioned Skillet Meatloaf Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty old-fashioned skillet meatloaf brings comfort straight from Grandma’s kitchen, promising a nostalgic journey through classic American comfort food. Savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a glossy glaze create a satisfying meal that connects generations with one delicious slice.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 lb (453 g) ground beef (85/15 for best flavor)

Binding and Moisture Ingredients:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 egg

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Glaze Ingredients:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or Worcestershire sauce)
• ½ teaspoon mustard (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the meat mixture by soaking breadcrumbs in milk for one minute, allowing them to absorb liquid and create a tender texture.
2. Incorporate ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika into the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Gently fold ingredients together using a light touch, ensuring the meat remains loose and tender without becoming compacted.
4. Form the mixture into an oval-shaped patty approximately one-inch thick, designed to fit perfectly within a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet.
5. Warm a tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium heat, creating an even cooking surface for the meatloaf.
6. Carefully place the meat patty into the heated skillet, allowing it to develop a rich, golden-brown crust for 5-6 minutes on each side.
7. Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard to create a tangy, caramelizing glaze.
8. Generously brush the prepared glaze over the browned meatloaf, coating it evenly to enhance flavor and appearance.
9. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the meatloaf to simmer and cook through for 10-15 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 160°F.
10. Remove from heat and let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
11. Slice and serve alongside classic accompaniments like creamy mashed potatoes, crisp green beans, or buttered corn for a comforting, traditional meal.

Notes

• Choose ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20 or 85/15) to ensure the meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful without becoming greasy.
• Mix ingredients gently and briefly to prevent the meatloaf from becoming tough, which happens when meat proteins are overworked.
• For a gluten-free option, swap breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour to maintain the binding texture.
• Consider adding grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to boost nutrition and keep the meatloaf moist, especially when using leaner meat.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 21 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg