This Cast Iron Meatloaf is a delightful mix of savory and hearty flavors, baked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. The result? A deliciously tender and juicy meatloaf that will have your family asking for seconds. It takes about 45 minutes to bake, but trust us, it’s worth the wait!
We’re keeping things simple and classic with this family favorite – our Cast Iron Meatloaf. This isn’t your average meatloaf; it’s a delicious blend of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! I make this recipe at least once a month because it’s easy to make and gives that home-cooked, special-dinner feel.
Serve it alongside your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or buttery cornbread. This classic dish pairs wonderfully with many options. If you have leftovers, you can freeze them.
Slice the meatloaf into portions, wrap each slice in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date it, and it will keep well for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven or microwave.
Cast Iron Meatloaf Recipe
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup Crushed saltine crackers
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 1 tsp freshly Ground black pepper
- 2 Eggs beaten
- ¼ cup Whole milk
- ¼ cup Ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 2 pounds Ground beef
For the Glaze
- ½ cup Ketchup
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
- ¼ tsp Cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Brush a 10-inch cast iron skillet with oil.
- Mix the crushed saltines, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Add the eggs, milk, ketchup, mustard, and balsamic vinegar to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- Add the ground beef and mix with your hands until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared skillet and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake for 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together ketchup, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and blot any excess oil with paper towels.
- Brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Broil for 5 to 7 minutes until the glaze is caramelized.
- Rest the meatloaf for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with any remaining glaze!
Notes
- Mix Gently: Combine the meatloaf ingredients with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, ensuring a tender texture.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to retain its juices and make slicing easier.
- Use Fresh Glaze: Apply a fresh layer of glaze before broiling to get a rich, caramelized finish.
Nutrition Facts:
Nutrition | Value |
---|---|
Calories | 365 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Protein | 23g |
Fat | 26g |
Cholesterol | 132mg |
Sodium | 779mg |
Potassium | 418mg |
Calcium | 46mg |
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat For This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can use different types of ground meat such as turkey, chicken, or pork. Keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey or chicken may result in a slightly drier meatloaf, so you might want to add an extra egg or a bit more milk to maintain moisture.
How Do I Prevent the Meatloaf From Sticking to the Cast Iron Skillet?
To prevent sticking, make sure to brush your cast iron skillet with oil before adding the meatloaf mixture. You can also use a piece of parchment paper on the bottom of the skillet for added assurance. This will make it easier to remove the meatloaf from the skillet once it’s cooked.