This Ranch Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic dish! It’s packed with tasty ground beef, zesty ranch seasoning, and a bit of cheese for extra flavor.
I love how easy it is to make and how it fills the house with a yummy smell. Plus, leftovers make the best sandwiches—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too, but the result will be a bit less rich.
Ranch Seasoning: A key flavor here! If you don’t have a packet, you can make a homemade mix with dried buttermilk, onion powder, garlic powder, and herbs like dill and parsley.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional white breadcrumbs are great, but you can swap in whole wheat or even crushed crackers if that’s what you have on hand.
Milk: Any type of milk will do! If you’re dairy-free, use almond milk or oat milk for soaking the breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth of flavor. You could substitute it with shredded mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option.
How Do You Get a Moist Meatloaf Without Overworking the Meat?
Mixing meatloaf requires a gentle hand! Overworking the meat can make it tough. To keep it moist:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk to add moisture.
- Combine ingredients with your hands or a fork just until mixed. Don’t overdo it!
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps it retain juices for a delicious final product.
Following these tips helps ensure you get a tender and tasty meatloaf every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Ranch Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ranch Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep, and about 1 hour to bake. You’ll need a total of around 1 hour and 15 minutes before this delicious meal is ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have this ready so that your meatloaf bakes evenly.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, take the breadcrumbs and soak them in milk. Let them sit for about 5 minutes so they can absorb the milk. This keeps your meatloaf moist!
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning mix, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, eggs, onion, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spatula—be careful not to overwork the meat!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. You can put it in a loaf pan or simply form it and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of this tasty glaze over the top of your meatloaf.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. After that, take it out and spread the remaining glaze on top for extra flavor.
7. Finish Baking:
Continue baking for another 15 minutes or until the meatloaf’s internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures it’s cooked through and safe to eat!
8. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it more flavorful when you cut into it.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve hot with mashed potatoes and green beans or your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Ranch Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner meatloaf. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, and you may want to add a little more seasoning for enhanced flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice as a filler. Just make sure the consistency allows the meatloaf to hold its shape!
How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Definitely! You can add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to not add too much moisture, so the loaf stays firm.