Brenda Gantt's Classic Meatloaf Recipe (2024)

Are you tired of the same old meatloaf recipe that your grandmother passed down to you? Look no further than Brenda Gantt's famous meatloaf recipe! This recipe is sure to blow your taste buds away with its unique blend of seasonings and ingredients. Plus, Brenda's southern charm will have you feeling like you're right at home in her kitchen.

First off, let's talk about the star of the show: ground beef. Brenda recommends using a mixture of ground chuck and ground sirloin for the perfect texture and flavor. But don't stop there – this recipe also calls for a secret ingredient that will take your meatloaf to the next level: crushed saltine crackers! Yes, you read that right. Trust us, it works.

Now, onto the seasonings. Brenda's recipe includes classic spices like garlic and onion powder, but she also adds a touch of sweetness with brown sugar and a kick of heat with cayenne pepper. The combination may sound strange, but we promise it's a winning combination.

But wait, there's more! Brenda also incorporates Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce for a savory umami flavor, and tops off the meatloaf with a tangy ketchup and mustard glaze. We're getting hungry just thinking about it.

One thing that sets Brenda's meatloaf apart from others is her cooking method. Instead of baking the meatloaf in a traditional loaf pan, she shapes it into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet. This allows the outside to crisp up and caramelize while the inside stays moist and tender.

But let's not forget about the sides. Brenda suggests serving her meatloaf with classic southern sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, but feel free to get creative! We love pairing it with roasted sweet potatoes and a simple salad.

And if you're wondering what to do with any leftovers (if there are any), Brenda has a solution for that too. She recommends slicing the meatloaf and making sandwiches with your favorite bread, mayo, and pickles. Yum!

In conclusion, Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to switch up their usual dinner routine. With its unique blend of flavors and cooking method, it's sure to become a family favorite. Plus, Brenda's charming personality and southern hospitality will make you feel like you're a part of her family too. So what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start cooking!


The Hunt for the Perfect Meatloaf Recipe

Let's face it, meatloaf can be a hit or a miss. It's either dry and flavorless or moist and packed with flavor. As someone who loves to cook, I have experimented with dozens of meatloaf recipes over the years. But none of them quite hit the spot until I stumbled upon Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe.

The Secret Ingredients

What sets Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe apart from the rest is the secret ingredients she uses. Instead of just ground beef and breadcrumbs, she adds in crushed Ritz crackers, diced onions, and bell peppers. But the real game-changer? A can of tomato soup. That's right, folks. Tomato soup.

The Preparation

To make Brenda Gantt's meatloaf, you'll need one pound of ground beef, a sleeve of Ritz crackers, one can of condensed tomato soup, one egg, half a cup of diced onions, half a cup of diced bell peppers, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, crush the Ritz crackers into small pieces using a rolling pin or food processor. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, diced onions, diced bell peppers, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Finally, add in the can of condensed tomato soup and mix everything together until well combined.

The Magic Touch

Once you've mixed all the ingredients together, it's time to shape the meatloaf. Brenda Gantt recommends forming it into a loaf shape and placing it in a baking dish. But here's where the magic touch comes in. Before putting it in the oven, spread a layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This adds a tangy sweetness to the dish and makes it extra delicious.

The Cooking Process

Pop the meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it cook for about an hour. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven, but you'll know it's done when the center reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the meatloaf cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

The Verdict

So, what's the verdict on Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe? Let's just say that it's a crowd-pleaser. The combination of the secret ingredients makes it incredibly moist and packed with flavor. And the layer of ketchup on top? Pure genius.

The Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely), Brenda Gantt's meatloaf makes for a great sandwich the next day. Toast some bread, slather on some mayo, and add a slice of meatloaf for the ultimate comfort food sandwich.

The Final Word

So, if you're on the hunt for the perfect meatloaf recipe, look no further than Brenda Gantt's. Her secret ingredients and magic touch make this dish a winner every time. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. Happy cooking!


The Recipe that will Make You Love Meatloaf

Let's face it, meatloaf has a bad reputation. It's often seen as a boring, flavorless dish that only gets pulled out when there's nothing else in the fridge. But fear not, my friends! Brenda Gantt has cracked the code to making a meatloaf that is anything but bland.

The Secret to a Perfectly Juicy Meatloaf

The key to a great meatloaf is moisture. No one wants a dry, crumbly hunk of meat on their plate. Brenda's secret ingredient? Crushed saltine crackers. Yup, you read that right. Instead of using breadcrumbs, she uses crushed up saltines to bind everything together and keep the meatloaf moist. Genius.

How to Impress Your Dinner Guests with Meatloaf

Meatloaf may not seem like the most impressive dish to serve at a dinner party, but trust me, Brenda's recipe will have your guests begging for seconds. The addition of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic gives the meatloaf a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

The Meatloaf Recipe That Will Make You Famous

Okay, maybe not famous. But definitely well-known among your friends and family as the meatloaf master. Brenda's recipe is a tried and true classic that has been passed down through generations. It's the kind of recipe that gets scribbled on a scrap of paper and tucked away in a cookbook for safekeeping.

From Bland to Delicious: How Brenda Gantt Saved Meatloaf

Before Brenda came along, meatloaf was seen as a last resort meal. But with her recipe, she has elevated it to comfort food status. It's the kind of meal that you crave on a rainy day or after a long week at work. Meatloaf may have been bland before, but Brenda has breathed new life into it.

Meatloaf: The Comfort Food You Didn't Know You Needed

When you think of comfort food, meatloaf may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But trust me, after trying Brenda's recipe, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. It's warm, filling, and nostalgic all at the same time. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for leftovers.

When Life Gives You Meat, Make Brenda Gantt's Meatloaf

Okay, that may not be exactly how the saying goes, but you get the idea. Meatloaf is a great way to use up any ground beef you have in the fridge. And when you make Brenda's recipe, you won't even feel like you're eating leftovers. It's that good.

The Only Meatloaf Recipe You Will Ever Need

There are a lot of meatloaf recipes out there, but trust me, you don't need any of them. Brenda's recipe is the only one you'll ever need. It's simple, flavorful, and foolproof. Plus, it's customizable. Want to add some spice? Throw in some diced jalapeños. Feeling fancy? Wrap the whole thing in bacon. The possibilities are endless.

Meatloaf: The Underdog of Dinner Parties

Meatloaf may not be the most glamorous dish, but it definitely deserves a spot on your dinner party menu. It's a crowd-pleaser that everyone can get behind. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time and reheats beautifully. Serve it with some mashed potatoes and green beans and you've got a meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Why Brenda Gantt's Meatloaf Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance

At the end of the day, the most important thing about any recipe is how it tastes. And let me tell you, Brenda's meatloaf will make your taste buds dance. The combination of spices, vegetables, and saltine crackers creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. It's the kind of dish that you'll be thinking about long after you've cleaned your plate.

So there you have it, folks. The ultimate meatloaf recipe courtesy of the one and only Brenda Gantt. Give it a try and I guarantee you'll never look at meatloaf the same way again.


The Legendary Meatloaf Recipe of Brenda Gantt

The Story Behind the Meatloaf

Brenda Gantt is a legendary cook in the Deep South, known for her delicious and hearty meals. Her meatloaf recipe has been passed down through generations and is considered a staple dish in Southern households.

The story behind Brenda's meatloaf recipe is quite interesting. It is said that she created the recipe during a time when her husband was out of work and they were struggling to make ends meet. She had to come up with a cheap and filling meal that would feed her family of six. And that's how the meatloaf was born!

Over the years, Brenda perfected the recipe and it became a favorite among her family and friends. Everyone who tasted it raved about its flavor and texture, and before long, Brenda's meatloaf became famous throughout the South.

The Humorous Point of View of the Meatloaf Recipe

Let's be honest, meatloaf isn't the most glamorous of dishes. It's not something you'd serve at a fancy dinner party or write home about. But Brenda's meatloaf is different. It's so delicious, it'll make you want to dance a jig!

First off, the ingredients are simple and easy to find. All you need is ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, and a few other pantry staples. But it's the way Brenda combines these ingredients that makes all the difference. She mixes them together with her bare hands, adding just the right amount of seasoning, until the mixture is perfectly blended.

Then she bakes the meatloaf in the oven until it's golden brown and crispy on the outside, and moist and juicy on the inside. The aroma that fills the house is intoxicating, and you can't help but drool as you wait for it to cool down enough to cut into.

But the best part about Brenda's meatloaf is the way she serves it. She cuts thick slices and smears them with a generous dollop of homemade gravy. And if you're lucky enough to be invited to her table, you'll also get a side of buttery mashed potatoes and creamy mac and cheese. It's comfort food at its finest!

Table Information

  • Recipe Name: Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe
  • Main Ingredients: Ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic, salt, pepper
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Serving Size: 8 servings
  • Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, mac and cheese
  • Tips: Mix the ingredients well with your hands for the best texture. Make sure to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing it. Serve with homemade gravy and your favorite sides.

In conclusion, Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe is a true gem of Southern cooking. It's humble yet delicious, simple yet flavorful, and it's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So next time you're in the mood for some comfort food, give Brenda's recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!


Bye-Bye Meatloaf Haters, Hello Brenda Gantt Fans!

Well, well, well! It seems like we have come to the end of our meatloaf journey. And what a journey it has been! We started off with some skeptics and ended up with some true believers. I mean, who knew that meatloaf could be so enjoyable?

If you are one of those people who used to cringe at the mere mention of meatloaf, then fret not. You have now been enlightened by the one and only Brenda Gantt Meatloaf recipe. You can now walk with your head held high knowing that you have been converted to the meatloaf fan club.

And for those of you who were already meatloaf enthusiasts, well, welcome to the club. You just got upgraded to the Brenda Gantt version, and trust me, it doesn't get better than this.

Now, before we bid farewell, let's take a moment to appreciate the magic that is the Brenda Gantt Meatloaf. From the first bite, you can taste all the love and care that went into making this dish. The perfect combination of flavors and textures will leave your taste buds singing hallelujah.

Let's talk about the meat for a second. Ground beef is usually the go-to meat when it comes to meatloaf, but Brenda Gantt takes it up a notch by combining it with ground pork sausage. The result is a juicy and flavorful meatloaf that will make you want to do a happy dance.

And let's not forget about the seasonings. Brenda Gantt knows how to spice things up. From Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, and parsley, every ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the flavor of the meatloaf.

But what really sets apart the Brenda Gantt Meatloaf from the rest is the glaze. Oh, that sweet and tangy glaze! Made with ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, it's the perfect finishing touch that takes this dish to a whole new level.

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, But meatloaf is so boring! Well, my friend, I beg to differ. With the Brenda Gantt Meatloaf recipe, you can say goodbye to bland and hello to exciting flavors.

So, whether you're having a family dinner or hosting a party, the Brenda Gantt Meatloaf will always be a hit. It's easy to make, delicious, and guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone's faces.

Before I sign off, let me just say one thing. If you haven't tried the Brenda Gantt Meatloaf recipe yet, then what are you waiting for? You're missing out on one of the best things in life. Go ahead, give it a try, and thank me later.

Until next time, happy cooking!


People also ask about Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe

What makes Brenda Gantt's meatloaf different?

Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe is different from others because it uses a mix of ground beef and ground pork. The addition of pork gives the meatloaf a unique flavor that sets it apart from traditional meatloaf recipes.

What are the ingredients in Brenda Gantt's meatloaf?

The ingredients for Brenda Gantt's meatloaf include:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How long does Brenda Gantt's meatloaf take to cook?

Brenda Gantt's meatloaf takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to cook. It should be baked in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I make substitutions to Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe?

Yes, you can make substitutions to Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe. For example, you could use ground turkey instead of ground beef if you prefer. However, keep in mind that substitutions may alter the final taste of the meatloaf.

Is Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe difficult to make?

No, Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe is not difficult to make. It is a straightforward recipe that requires mixing the ingredients together and baking in the oven. Even beginners can make this recipe with ease.

So, what are you waiting for? Give Brenda Gantt's meatloaf recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!


Brenda Gantt's Classic Meatloaf Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart? ›

Alternatively, rice, barley, corn flakes, crackers, and dried soup mix can also stand in as binding ingredients as well.

What does adding an extra egg to meatloaf do? ›

Eggs Add Structure

Egg yolks, which are mostly water but contain a good amount of protein and fat, add flavor, richness, and moisture. They also help bind the meat together and get the loaf to set in a stable form without the need to overwork the meat.

Why milk instead of water in meatloaf? ›

The wet ingredients you add to meatloaf make it juicy. Using whole milk will add more richness and fat that keeps it from going dry. Along with ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, it gives meatloaf a marvelous texture.

What not to put in meatloaf? ›

Here are some of the biggest mistakes you may be making with this family dinner classic.
  1. Not using the correct blend of meats. ...
  2. Using breadcrumbs instead of oatmeal. ...
  3. Forgetting to soak your bread. ...
  4. Omitting vegetables from the mix. ...
  5. Adding raw vegetables to your meatloaf. ...
  6. Under-seasoning the meatloaf.
Dec 31, 2022

What happens if you put too many eggs in meatloaf? ›

For an average meat loaf, use 1/2 to 3/4 cup fresh, soft bread crumbs to every pound of meat. When using fine, dry crumbs, use half as much. Other Ingredients: Eggs bind the mixture, add flavor and increase browning, but too much egg will make a meat loaf tough and rubbery.

What happens if you put too much bread crumbs in meatloaf? ›

Another common reason meatloaf is mushy is too much filler, like breadcrumbs, bread, and oatmeal. Too much filler will stop it from baking correctly and becoming a fully formed meatloaf. So, just as you would reduce the amount of liquid you use, reduce the amount of filler you use.

Should I cover my meatloaf with aluminum foil? ›

Should I cook my meatloaf covered or uncovered? The meatloaf can be cooked uncovered. However, if you are concerned about it burning, you can cover the meatloaf with foil for the first 45 minutes and uncover it for the final 15 minutes to allow the meatloaf to brown on top.

What happens if you put too much milk in meatloaf? ›

Too Much Liquid

Adding broth, milk, or eggs can enhance flavor and moisture, but too much can lead to a soupy consistency. Use these ingredients sparingly, and consider adding breadcrumbs or oats to absorb excess moisture.

Should you cook onions before putting in meatloaf? ›

I later learned how I could avoid this problem and make a fully smooth meatloaf by pre-cooking any vegetables, especially the onion, before adding them to the ground meat. This way the meatloaf gets the flavor without the rawness -- a method from the smart people at Cook's Illustrated.

Should I drain the grease from my meatloaf? ›

Let the loaf cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. If you baked the meatloaf in a loaf pan, carefully drain off the liquid fat before transferring the meatloaf to a clean cutting board.

What is the secret ingredient to tenderize meat? ›

Sprinkle and stir: To prepare ground beef, stir 1/2 teaspoon baking soda into 1 pound of ground beef.

How to make a Bobby Flay meatloaf? ›

Whisk together the eggs and herbs in a large bowl. Add the meat, bread crumbs, cheese, 1/2 cup of the ketchup and 2 tablespoons of the balsamic vinegar, the vegetables and mix until just combined. Mold the meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Do you put ketchup on top of meatloaf before cooking? ›

Whether you slather a thick layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf before it goes into the oven, add a few tablespoons to the ground meat mixture, or serve extra ketchup on the side, this tangy-sweet, umami-rich condiment balances out the richness of the beef, making it an essential part of the dish.

What is the basic meatloaf formula? ›

In essence, it boils down to a few simple steps: Combine ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, and other flavorful ingredients of your choice. Put this mixture in a lightly greased loaf pan and bake it until it's cooked through.

What is the best binder for meatloaf? ›

Most recipes require bread crumbs soaked in moisture as the binder to improve the quality of your meatloaf, but there are plenty of other options. In fact, many people consider using Panko instead because it is light and airy and helps the meat crisp as it cooks.

What to use in meatloaf to bind it together besides breadcrumbs or saltine crackers? ›

The Best 10 Breadcrumb Substitutes
  1. Rolled oats. Rolled oats are the perfect gluten-free binding ingredient, replacing breadcrumbs in meatballs or meatloaf and many more recipes when you need to bind meat and eggs. ...
  2. Potato chips. ...
  3. Cornflakes. ...
  4. Almonds. ...
  5. Croutons. ...
  6. Crackers. ...
  7. Seeds.
Oct 18, 2022

How do you keep meatloaf from getting tough? ›

Use Extra Egg: Eggs act as binders and provide moisture. Add one or two eggs per pound of meat for a moist texture. Make Use of Milk: Soak breadcrumbs in milk before adding them to your mixture. This will keep your meatloaf moist during baking.

How do you keep meatloaf from getting mushy? ›

One of the most common reasons meatloaf is watery is an overabundance of liquid ingredients. Adding broth, milk, or eggs can enhance flavor and moisture, but too much can lead to a soupy consistency. Use these ingredients sparingly, and consider adding breadcrumbs or oats to absorb excess moisture.

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