Tips for an easy Meatloaf Recipe

According to MenuCochon: Do not over mix the meat : Overworking the meat will make your meatloaf too dense. Add milk or cream : This helps keep a soft and juicy texture. Use an appropriate mold : A cake pan allows for better structure and even baking. Personalize the spices : Add cumin, thyme or pepper to vary the flavors. Serve with a sauce : Brown gravy, tomato sauce or mustard can enhance the taste of meatloaf

Meatloaf with Vegetables

According to MenuCochon: Add shredded carrots, diced zucchini or chopped mushrooms to the mixture for a lighter and more nutritious version.

According to MenuCochon: Incorporate 100 g of grated cheddar cheese into the mix for a melting and delicious center.

Italian-style Meatloaf

According to MenuCochon: Add dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese and basil for a Mediterranean touch.

Meatloaf: recipe perfect comfort

Name: Delicious and Comforting Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 6 portions
Cuisine: Plats principaux Boeuf
Ingredients: 500 g ground meat (beef, pork or a mix of both); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 g cloves of garlic, sliced; 100 g breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 120 ml milk; 2 tablespoons of ketchup; 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of pepper; 1/2 (optional) teaspoon of paprika; 1 teaspoon of Provence herbs or chopped parsley; 3 tablespoons of ketchup; 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

Beef Main Dishes Pork Main Dishes

Delicious and Comforting Meatloaf Recipe

Prep12 min

Cook60 min

Servings6

DifficultyMedium

By Menucochon|

March 9, 2025

|Updated: Apr 5, 2026

Beef Main Dishes Pork Main Dishes

Delicious and Comforting Meatloaf Recipe

Prep12 min

Cook60 min

Servings6

DifficultyMedium

By Menucochon|

March 9, 2025

|Updated: Apr 5, 2026

There's nothing quite like gathering with family around a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul! This iconic dish is more than just a meal; it's a culinary tradition that spans generations. Although it has roots across the border, it has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of Quebec's culinary heritage, merging with our gastronomic habits while adapting to local tastes. This dish is a staple of weekday dinners and Sunday meals. It often evokes childhood memories, with that enticing aroma filling the home, reminding us of times spent around the family table. This classic is also an ideal solution for those looking to prepare a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Thanks to its simple and accessible ingredients, it proves that simplicity can indeed rhyme with deliciousness. The beauty of this dish also lies in its versatility. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, it offers a perfect base to express your culinary creativity. You can personalize it infinitely: add seasonal vegetables for a fresh touch, or incorporate aromatic herbs to enhance the flavors. It's a dish that lends itself to any occasion, whether a quick weekday meal or a more elaborate version to impress your guests during a cozy dinner party.

Ingredients

Servings

350 kcal

Preparation

Instructions

0/6

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a cake mold or a baking dish.
Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and Provence herbs.
Shape the Meat Loaf
With your hands, mix all ingredients well until obtaining a homogeneous texture. Form a large ball and place it in the cake mold, giving it a slightly elongated shape.
Prepare and Add Sauce (Optional)
In a small bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Spread this sauce evenly on the meat loaf's top for a caramelized and flavorful finish.
Baking – Meat Loaf in the Oven
Bake the meat loaf and let it cook for about 1 hour, until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F). To check the doneness, insert a meat thermometer at the center.
Rest and Service
Remove the meat loaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to evenly distribute and obtain a tender texture.

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Our Tips

Chef's tips for making this recipe

For a more tender texture, consider adding a bit of breadcrumbs soaked in milk to your mixture. This helps retain moisture and makes every bite even more delightful. If you're keen on exploring new flavors, try incorporating spices like nutmeg or cumin; they will add a warm dimension to your dish. Cooking is also a crucial element for the success of this dish. Make sure to cook at a moderate temperature to allow all the ingredients to harmonize well. A handy tip for checking doneness without altering the dish is to use a meat thermometer; this will prevent it from drying out. To diversify the flavors, experiment with different types of meats or vegetarian substitutes. Beef can be replaced with turkey, chicken, or even a blend of vegetables and legumes for a meatless version. Remember to season well and taste throughout the preparation to adjust the flavors to your liking.

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Serving Suggestions

Beyond being a delicious dish, it is a true invitation to conviviality. It's a meal that brings people together, inviting sharing and exchange around the table. The simplicity of its preparation allows for lively discussions and shared laughter, making every meal memorable. Enjoy a warm moment in the kitchen, and don't hesitate to involve the whole family in the preparation. Kids love to get their hands dirty, and it's also an excellent opportunity to pass on culinary skills. In the end, this dish is much more than just a meal; it's a tradition, a heritage, and a part of our Quebec culture. So, make it a unique moment and savor every bite with your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

4 questions about this recipe

Do not over mix the meat : Overworking the meat will make your meatloaf too dense.
Add milk or cream : This helps keep a soft and juicy texture.
Use an appropriate mold : A cake pan allows for better structure and even baking.
Personalize the spices : Add cumin, thyme or pepper to vary the flavors.
Serve with a sauce : Brown gravy, tomato sauce or mustard can enhance the taste of meatloaf