This Ranch Meatloaf is a juicy twist on a classic dish, packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s made with tender ground beef and zesty ranch seasoning!
It’s like comfort food with a ranch flair! I love serving this with mashed potatoes and a side salad. Trust me, you’ll want to go back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. They can keep your meatloaf just as juicy, but be careful not to overcook them.
Bread Crumbs: If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed crackers make a great substitute. You can even use oatmeal for a healthier twist.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is key for flavor! If you can’t find it, try using Italian seasoning or a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Or try mixing homemade ranch seasoning with Greek yogurt for a cooling effect.
Ketchup: I like to use a mix of ketchup and BBQ sauce for a deeper flavor! You can also use a low-sugar ketchup if you want a healthier option.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf is Juicy and Tender?
Getting the perfect meatloaf can be tricky, but following a few simple steps will help. The key to a tender meatloaf is to mix your ingredients well but don’t overwork the meat.
- Use a gentle hand when combining; just mix until everything is blended.
- Adding milk adds moisture—don’t skip it!
- Allowing the loaf to rest after baking lets the juices redistribute, keeping it juicy when sliced.
These small steps can make a big difference in the final dish. Enjoy your Ranch Meatloaf!
How to Make Ranch Meatloaf?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- For Greasing:
- Cooking spray or oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ranch Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 60-70 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. In total, you’re looking at about 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish, but it’s so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, take a loaf pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil so the meatloaf won’t stick.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, milk, beaten egg, ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well with your hands or a fork, but be gentle—overmixing can make it tough!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently to shape it into a loaf. You want it to be even so it cooks nicely.
4. Add the Topping:
Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious glaze as it cooks.
5. Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. You know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the juices run clear.
6. Rest and Slice:
When it’s done baking, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This step helps keep the juices inside, so every bite is moist and flavorful!
7. Serve:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley if you like, and serve your delicious Ranch Meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. Enjoy!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time, as turkey can cook a bit faster than beef.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?
Yes! If you want to make it egg-free, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of yogurt as a substitute. This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping it moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Definitely! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery can add great flavor and moisture. Just keep in mind that too many veggies might alter the texture, so stick to about 1/2 cup total
