When it comes to making the perfect meatloaf, choosing the best meat for the job is essential. The right choice of meat can elevate this beloved classic to new heights of deliciousness. In this guide, we will explore the top contenders for the best meat for meatloaf, ensuring that every bite of your homemade meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and downright irresistible. Get ready to take your meatloaf game to the next level!

If you're looking for inspiration when it comes to meatloaf, we invite you to dive into our collection of favorite meatloaf recipes. From classic renditions to creative twists, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

What Makes A Really Good Meatloaf

A good meatloaf is characterized by several key factors.

It should have a well-balanced blend of flavors, with a savory and rich taste profile.
The texture is important too, as it should be moist, tender, and not overly dense or mushy. A good meatloaf holds its shape when sliced or served, but is still easy to cut through.
It should be seasoned properly, with a harmonious combination of herbs, spices, and other seasonings to enhance the overall taste. Given all these requirements for making the best meatloaf, it naturally raises the question: What is the best type of meat for Meatloaf?

What is the Best Meat for Meatloaf?

Ground Beef

When it comes to meatloaf, ground beef is often the first choice that comes to mind. This preference is justified, as beef imparts a rich and robust flavor to the dish. However, it's important to note that not all ground beef is the same. Pay attention to the lean-to-fat ratio when choosing ground beef for your meatloaf.

While meatballs and burgers cook relatively quickly, meatloaf spends a longer time in the oven. To prevent it from drying out during the extended cooking period, it's crucial to use ground beef with a higher fat content. For all-beef meatloaf recipes, opt for ground beef labeled as 80/20 or 85/15, indicating the ratio of lean meat to fat. Using leaner ground beef like 90/10 can result in a tougher and drier meatloaf. Choose wisely to ensure a moist and flavorful outcome.

Pork

For those who prefer to steer away from beef, ground pork serves as a great alternative for making meatloaf. Moreover, if there's someone in your household who isn't fond of traditional meatloaf, using pork instead may just change their perception!

While ground pork, being fattier than beef, produces a wonderfully juicy and moist meatloaf, it does come with a trade-off. You'll sacrifice some of the classic rich and meaty flavors associated with beef. Instead, the meatloaf will lean more towards a "meatball" taste, which can be a positive or negative depending on your expectations for the dish.

Chicken

Chicken meat is also a wonderful choice for making a fantastic meatloaf. With its mild taste and lean profile, it brings a lighter and healthier twist to the traditional meatloaf. To ensure a moist and juicy texture, we recommend to use ground chicken mixed with a small amount of fatty meat such as ground pork or beef. This combination not only adds richness but also helps maintain the desired moisture in the meatloaf. With the right seasonings and ingredients, a chicken meatloaf can be a delightful alternative for those seeking a lighter and poultry-based option.

Blend of Meats

To achieve the ultimate meatloaf experience, we highly recommend to explore a meat blend. Combining different types of meat allows you to harness the unique advantages of each, resulting in a truly exceptional dish.

For a superb meatloaf, consider blending beef, pork, veal, chicken or lamb. We find that a mixture of ground beef, ground pork, and sausage yields an incredibly flavorful meatloaf with a delightful texture. It's a winning combination that truly elevates the overall taste and enjoyment of the dish.

Veal

If you've ever come across prepackaged meat labeled as 'meatloaf mix' at the grocery store, you may be familiar with its combination of beef, pork, and veal. However, when it comes to creating a flavorful and moist meatloaf, we find that veal is an unnecessary addition.

While veal does contribute to a pleasant texture, it lacks a distinctive taste. In fact, it tends to dampen the rich and meaty flavor that many associate with a delicious meatloaf. Some meatloaf recipes even opt to omit veal entirely, substituting it with gelatin instead, as a means to achieve the desired texture without sacrificing flavor. Ultimately, for a meatloaf that truly shines in taste, it's perfectly acceptable to skip the veal and explore other alternatives

Tips For The Best Meatloaf

Choose the right meat: Opt for ground beef with a ratio of 85/15 or 80/20 for a juicy and flavorful meatloaf. Alternatively, consider blending different meats like beef, pork, chicken, sausage, or lamb for added richness and taste.
Pre-cook vegetables: Cook any vegetables you plan to add to the meatloaf beforehand. This ensures they are tender and properly cooked.
Avoid overmixing: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in a denser and tougher texture.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
Resting time: Let your meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the flavors settle and ensures that the juices distribute evenly throughout the loaf when sliced.

How long to cook Meatloaf?

The cooking time for meatloaf can vary depending on the size and thickness of the loaf. As a general guideline, a standard-sized meatloaf typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to cook at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). It is important to ensure that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. To be certain, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remember to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

What Temperature To Cook Meatloaf?

Meatloaf is typically cooked at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). This moderate oven temperature allows the meatloaf to cook evenly and thoroughly without drying out or burning. It is important to ensure that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

What To Serve With Meatloaf Dinner

Steakhouse Creamed Spinach-This classic side dish is the perfect accompaniment to homemade meatloaf. With tender spinach leaves cooked in a luscious blend of cream, butter, and seasonings, every bite is a true delight. Elevate your dining experience with this decadent and comforting dish.

Caramelized Shallot Mashed Potatoes-Velvety smooth and bursting with flavor, this side dish takes mashed potatoes to a whole new level. The sweetness of caramelized shallots adds a delightful twist, creating a heavenly combination with creamy potatoes.

Garlic Bread in Air Fryer-Garlic bread made in the air fryer pairs wonderfully with meatloaf. It compliments the rich and savory flavors of the meatloaf.

Roasted Cabbage Steaks-The natural sweetness of the cabbage balances the savory profile of the meatloaf, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans with Garlic-They add a fresh and vibrant element to the meal, balancing out the heartiness of the meatloaf.

Air Fryer Asparagus-Whether served alongside or as a garnish, crispy air fryer asparagus is a delicious and healthy addition to your meatloaf dinner.

Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions For Burgers-The earthy and savory flavors of the mushrooms and the sweetness of the onions complement the rich and hearty taste of the meatloaf. Whether served on the side or as a topping, sauteed mushrooms and onions are a perfect pairing for meatloaf.