Mom’s Meat Loaf

Mom's Meat Loaf Tips

How do I make my meat loaf moist?

In this recipe, you make the meat loaf moist by using crushed saltines mixed with milk to help add moisture during the cooking process. This can also be done with breadcrumbs or buttery Ritz crackers. The crumbs release the moisture during the cooking process and stops the loaf from drying out. Also, try to let your loaf rest once it comes out of the oven. Slicing it too soon will release the juice from inside.

What kind of meat is best for meat loaf?

The best meat for meat loaf is any ground meat with a higher fat content. You can do a trio of beef, pork, and veal or stick with ground chuck. While you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a healthy change, but just understand your meat loaf may not be as moist as the higher-fat varieties of meat.

What can I put on top of meat loaf instead of ketchup?

If you are to top meat loaf with something other than ketchup, you can use your favorite prepared barbecue sauce instead. Sliced cheddar makes a cozy topping, as well—just place it on top in the last few minutes of baking. You can also try topping your meat loaf with strips of bacon, like we do in our bacon-topped meat loaf recipe.

What does milk do in meat loaf?

Milk is used in meat loaf recipes to help moisten the breadcrumbs and keep the loaf’s shape intact. This added moisture will be released during cooking, resulting in a moist loaf. Research contributed by Maggie Knoebel, Taste of Home Culinary Assistant