What are some comfort food recipes? This isn’t your grandma’s dry, bland meatloaf (sorry, Grandm Think of it as the cooler, crunchier cousin of a classic Beef Stew – just as satisfying, but with more flavor. Is there a texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds? I grew up on this, and honestly, even now, nothing beats the smell of it baking on a chilly evening. Is it warm, savory, and makes you feel good? What are some of the best recipes out there? Even my picky eaters devour it!
What is Cornflake Meatloaf
So, what *is* a Cornflake Meatloaf? Well, it’s essentially your standard meatloaf mixture – Ground Beef, onions, seasonings, the usual suspects – but instead of breadcrumbs, we’re using crushed cornflakes! Think of it as adding a secret weapon to your meatloaf arsenal. It gives the meatloaf a fantastic crispy crust and a slight sweetness that complements the savory flavors perfectly. It’s essentially a classic meatloaf that’s gone to finishing school – same solid foundation, but with a touch of elegance (and crunch!). It’s the kind of meal where every bite is a little bit different, and that’s what keeps it exciting.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let me count the ways! First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. You get that classic meatloaf taste we all know and love, but the cornflakes add a layer of texture and a subtle sweetness that elevates it to a whole new level. Honestly, it’s the kind of flavor that lingers in your memory. Secondly, this recipe is ridiculously easy. Seriously, even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up without breaking a sweat. Third, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Ground Beef and cornflakes are staples in most households, and the other ingredients are pantry basics.
What I love most about this Cornflake Meatloaf Recipe is its versatility. You can serve it with mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal, or slice it up for meatloaf sandwiches the next day. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have lying around. I’ve even snuck in finely grated zucchini and carrots without anyone noticing! I’ve tried other meatloaf recipes, and they just don’t compare. The cornflakes create a perfect balance of texture and flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. My kids, who are notoriously picky, gobble this down without a single complaint. Now that’s a win in my book!
How do you make cornflake meatloaf?
Quick Overview
Making this *Cornflake Meatloaf Recipe* is seriously simple. You’ll basically mix all your ingredients together, shape it into a loaf, cover it in crushed cornflakes, and bake it until it’s cooked through. The best part is that you can customize it to your liking! Add your favorite seasonings, vegetables, or even a little bit of cheese for an extra cheesy kick. It’s almost impossible to mess this recipe up, which is why I love it so much. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone who wants a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
* 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend is perfect)
* 1 medium onion, finely chopped
* 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional, but I love the flavor!)
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 cup milk (I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch and it works great!)
* 1 cup crushed cornflakes (slightly crushed, not powder)
* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping: What is the
* 2 cups crushed cornflakes (coarsely crushed) * 1/4 cup melted butter (optional, but adds a nice nice crunch) How do cornflakes stick together?
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×5 loaf pan. I like to use cooking spray, but you can also grease it with butter or oil. How do I remove meatloaf from oven?
Step 2: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), eggs, milk, crushed cornflakes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands until well combined, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently shape it into a loaf. Try to make it as even as possible so it cooks evenly. I usually press down on the top to create a slight indentation – this helps the topping stay in place.
Step 4: Prepare the Cornflake Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the coarsely crushed cornflakes and melted butter. Set aside. Toss them together until the cornflakes are evenly coated. How does butter add flavor to meatloaf? If you skip the butter, just make sure the cornflakes are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf, pressing it down gently so it adheres to the surface. This is what gives the meatloaf its signature crispy crust.
Step 6: Bake
In the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the juices are clear. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Can you use a meat thermometer to check the temperature? If you have a meatloaf, insert it into the thickest part of the pan, being careful not to touch the bottom of it.
Step 7: Rest
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, the wait is worth it!
Step 8: Slice and Serve
What is the recipe for cornflake meatloaf? Slice into even slices and serve hot. Is it good with mashed potatoes and gravy, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad? I also love making meatloaf sandwiches with the leftovers. What are some great quick and easy dinner ideas?
What should I serve it with?
What are some comfort food recipes for cornflake meatloaf? What are the usual suspectWhat is a classic dinner?What is the best combination of mashed potatoes and gravy? What are some good side salads to serve with steamed green beans? If you’re feeling fancy, try adding a dollop of sour cream to the recipe. What is mashed potatoesWhat is a hearty lunch?What are some good leftover meatloaf sandwiches? Slap a slice between two pieces of bread with ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise. How do I add lettuce, tomato, onion to my food?For a Cozy Night In:Serve with mac and cheese and roasted vegetables. What is the perfect meal for a chilly evening? I also like to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to my mac and cheese. My family always asks for this with a side of my creamy coleslaw, which is sweet and tangy. What makes a meatloaf good? It’s become a tradition! Is there any wrong answer here – serve it with whatever you love? What’s the beauty of comfort food?
What are some tips for perfecting cornflake meatloaf?
What are some tricks to make cornflake meatloaf even better?Don’t Overmix:I know I mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating. If you overmix meatloaf, mix it just until everything is combined.What is the best quality ground beef?I prefer to use 80/20 ground beef. It has enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful, but not so much that it’s greasy.Add Moisture: Add some waterThe milk in this recipe helps to keep the meatloaf moist. What are some good ways to add beef broth or tomato juice to a dish?Customize the Seasonings: CustomFeel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes. If you prefer a more savory flavor, add smoked paprika or dried thyme.Don’t skip the topping: What are someWhat makes this meatloaf special is the cornflake topping! It adds a fantastic crispy crust and subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors.Let It Rest:Letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving allows the juices to soak up. What is the best way to redistribute meatloaf? I tried adding cheddar cheese to the meatloaf, and it was a total mess. The cheese melted and created a gooey, cheesy center that was absolutely delicious. What is the best cheddar cheese to use?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
What is a good cornflake meatloaf recipe?Room Temperature: Room I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the meatloaf, it’s best to wait to add the glaze until after it’s been reheated. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy during the freezing and thawing process.
When reheating, you can either microwave it, bake it in the oven, or pan-fry it. Microwaving is the quickest option, but it can sometimes make the meatloaf a little dry. Baking it in the oven is the best way to reheat it because it will help to retain its moisture and flavor. Pan-frying it is also a good option if you want a crispy crust. Just make sure to cook it over medium heat and flip it occasionally to prevent it from burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Seriously, folks, this *Cornflake Meatloaf Recipe* is a game-changer. It’s easy, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crispy cornflake crust and savory flavor are a match made in heaven. It’s one of those dishes that brings back so many good memories and is always a hit with my family. I truly hope you give it a try! And if you’re a fan of easy comfort food, be sure to check out my other recipes. You might just find your new favorite weeknight meal! Happy cooking!
Cornflake Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup cornflakes, crushed plus extra for topping
- 1 large egg beaten
- 0.5 cup onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed cornflakes, beaten egg, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Sprinkle extra crushed cornflakes on top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
