Budget-Friendly Meatloaf Recipe (No Glaze)

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Are you looking for a tasty, budget-friendly meal that’s easy to make? This meatloaf recipe is perfect for you! You can make a delicious meatloaf without breaking the bank using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

This recipe doesn’t need a glaze, which makes it even easier to prepare. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is to eat. Give it a try for your next family dinner – everyone will be asking for seconds!

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this budget-friendly meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 lb ground pork (or another pound of beef)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (fresh or dried)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

This recipe is easy to customize. You can use all beef if you prefer, or try a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.

The breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together. If you don’t have store-bought, you can make your own by toasting bread and crumbling it.

Remember to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. This helps them blend into the meatloaf better.

You can adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Start with these amounts and add more if needed.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure even cooking.

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients. Use your hands to combine everything well. This gives you the best texture.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup easier.

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the lined sheet. Aim for about 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.

Put the meatloaf in the oven. Bake for 60 minutes or until it reaches 160°F (70°C) inside.

Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Insert it into the middle of the loaf.

Once done, take the meatloaf out. Let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting. This keeps it juicy.

Slice and serve your meatloaf. It goes great with mashed potatoes or veggies.

Save any leftovers for sandwiches later. They’re tasty cold or reheated.

Possible Substitutes List

You can easily swap out ingredients in this budget-friendly meatloaf recipe. Here are some tasty options:

Meat:

• Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
• Plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version

Breadcrumbs:

• Crushed crackers
• Oatmeal
• Cooked rice

Milk:

• Broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
• Non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat)
• Water mixed with a bit of plain yogurt

Onion:

• Shallots
• Leeks
• Dried onion flakes

Garlic:

• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon per clove)
• Minced jarred garlic

Eggs:

• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg

Worcestershire sauce:

• Soy sauce
• Balsamic vinegar
• Steak sauce

Try these swaps to match your taste or use what you have on hand. You’ll still get a yummy meatloaf!

How To Make It Diabetes-Friendly

You can make this meatloaf recipe more diabetes-friendly with a few simple changes. Start by using lean ground beef (93% lean) instead of 80% lean. This cuts down on fat and calories.

Replace half the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner protein mix. Swap out regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat or almond flour to lower carbs.

Use unsweetened almond milk in place of regular milk. This reduces sugar and carbs. Add extra veggies like grated zucchini or carrots to boost fiber and nutrients.

Cut back on salt to 1/2 teaspoon and add more herbs for flavor. Try oregano, thyme, or parsley.

Here’s a quick list of swaps:

• 93% lean ground beef
• Ground turkey
• Whole wheat breadcrumbs
• Unsweetened almond milk
• Extra veggies
• More herbs, less salt

These small changes make a big difference. You’ll end up with a tasty, diabetes-friendly meatloaf that’s still budget-friendly and easy to make.

Remember to watch your portion sizes too. A serving of 3-4 ounces is a good rule of thumb.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

To make your meatloaf extra tasty, try these tips:

• Soak your breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes before mixing. This keeps the meatloaf moist.

• Don’t overmix! Gently combine ingredients just until mixed to avoid a tough texture.

• For even cooking, shape your loaf to an even thickness throughout.

Want to save time? Make a double batch and freeze half for later. Here’s how:

1. Form the extra mixture into a loaf shape
2. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil
3. Freeze for up to 3 months
4. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking

Storing leftovers is easy. Put slices in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can eat them cold or reheat in the microwave.

For a quick work lunch, try a meatloaf sandwich. Spread mayo on bread, add a slice of meatloaf, and top with lettuce and tomato. Yum!

Remember, meatloaf tastes even better the next day. The flavors have time to mingle, making it perfect for meal prep.