Carol Burnett’s Classic Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and simple to make. This recipe has been a long-time favorite of the beloved comedic legend, showcasing her love for classic, home-cooked meals. With a combination of ground beef, onions, green bell peppers, and a savory tomato sauce, this meatloaf is a satisfying dish that delivers delicious flavors with every bite. Whether served with mashed potatoes or a side of vegetables, it’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
What makes Carol Burnett’s Classic Meatloaf so irresistible is its comforting flavor profile and ease of preparation. The blend of spices—onion salt, garlic salt, and freshly ground black pepper—infuses the meat with bold flavor, while the tomato sauce provides moisture and tang. The bread crumbs give the meatloaf a tender texture, and the generous topping of tomato sauce ensures each slice is juicy and flavorful. Plus, it’s a dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a classic family meal.
What Is Carol Burnett’s Classic Meatloaf?
Carol Burnett’s Classic Meatloaf is a traditional American dish made with ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, and a mixture of seasonings. The meatloaf is baked in a loaf pan and topped with tomato sauce, creating a savory, satisfying meal. This simple but delicious recipe has stood the test of time, thanks to its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Perfect for anyone who loves classic comfort food, this meatloaf is great for family dinners, special occasions, or as a hearty meal to enjoy with loved ones.
Cooking Tips
- Use lean ground beef: While 85/15 ground round is ideal for flavor, feel free to use a leaner cut if you prefer less fat in your meatloaf.
- Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the ingredients, gently mix with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a dense texture.
- Let it rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 20 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Customize the sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of tomato sauce used, or even add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mix for a deeper flavor.
- Add veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, you can stir in finely chopped carrots, celery, or other vegetables into the meat mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef if you prefer a leaner or different protein. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly.
Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf and assemble it the night before. Just cover and refrigerate it, and bake it the next day as directed.
Can I make mini meatloafs instead?
Yes! You can form the meat mixture into smaller individual loaves and bake them for 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
How to Store
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
How to Freeze
To freeze, allow the meatloaf to cool completely. Slice it and wrap each portion in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp onion salt
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 2 pounds 85/15 ground round
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
How to Make Carlo Burnett's Meatloaf
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×5-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add half of the tomato sauce, chopped onions, green bell peppers, salt, black pepper, onion salt, and garlic salt. Stir in the ground beef and bread crumbs, mixing thoroughly with your hands to combine.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking pan and shape it into a loaf. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the top is browned.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes to cool slightly before slicing.
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Enjoy!
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