Meatloaf

What is Meatloaf?

Meatloaf is made by combining ground meat, usually beef but sometimes pork, lamb, poultry, or even seafood, with ingredients like eggs and bread crumbs to help it hold together. The mixture is shaped into a loaf, either by hand or in a pan, and then baked or smoked. Some versions include fillings such as hard-boiled eggs, vegetables, or cheese. Meatloaf can be served hot as a main dish or cold in slices, sometimes in sandwiches. Its texture is firm but tender, and the taste depends on the seasoning and sauces used.

Where does Meatloaf come from?

Meatloaf has roots in traditional dishes from Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Czechia, and other parts of Europe. In North America, it developed from scrapple, a dish made by German-Americans in Pennsylvania using ground pork and cornmeal. The modern American version, shaped and baked as a loaf, appeared in cookbooks in the late 1800s. Across Europe and beyond, similar dishes exist under different names, with local twists and fillings.

How is Meatloaf made?

To make meatloaf, ground meat is mixed with eggs, bread crumbs, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and onion. The mixture may include other ingredients such as vegetables, cheese, or sausage. Some recipes call for a filling of hard-boiled eggs or pickles. The loaf is shaped by hand or in a pan, sometimes wrapped in bacon or ham, and baked until cooked through. In some countries, it is steamed or boiled instead. Sauces like tomato, brown gravy, or ketchup are often added on top or served alongside.

How and when is Meatloaf eaten?

Meatloaf is usually eaten as a main course at lunch or dinner. It is often served with side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or bread. In some places, it is also eaten cold, sliced for sandwiches or with salads. The dish is common in home cooking and is also found in diners and restaurants, especially in North America. In Europe, it may be served with sauces or gravies, and sometimes with jam or pickles.

Kinds of Meatloaf

Many countries have their own versions of meatloaf. Austrian and German styles may be wrapped in bacon or filled with eggs. In the Philippines, embutido is steamed and often includes raisins and sausages. Bulgarian and Hungarian meatloaves are filled with eggs and vegetables. In the US, toppings like tomato sauce or ketchup are popular, and vegetarian or vegan versions exist. Some recipes use lamb organs, seafood, or even imitation meats.

What Meatloaf means

Meatloaf is seen as a comfort food in North America, often linked to home cooking and family meals. During the Great Depression, it became a way to stretch meat by adding fillers. In Europe, it is a traditional dish with local names and customs, sometimes served at gatherings or as a cold cut. In some regions, it is associated with specific sauces or accompaniments. Its adaptability has led to many creative and regional forms.

Questions people ask about Meatloaf

Good reading and sources

• A Brief History of MeatloafBon Appétit, Article
• The joy of meatloaf, that iconic comfort foodLos Angeles Times, Recipe

• Meatloaf on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data