This Ranch Meatloaf combination is comfort food at its best! It mixes ground beef with tasty ranch dressing, giving it a fun twist everyone will love.
Meatloaf can sometimes get a bad rap, but trust me, this one will change your mind! I enjoy serving it with mashed potatoes, and leftovers make great sandwiches.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 85% lean beef for a juicy meatloaf without being too fatty. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great as substitutes.
Ranch Dressing: Bottled ranch dressing is quick and easy, but homemade will give you a fresher taste. Mix buttermilk, mayo, and herbs for a simple homemade version. If ranch isn’t your vibe, use Italian dressing instead!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are perfect, but you can use crushed crackers, like saltines or Ritz, for something crunchy. You can also substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Optional is a good way to go! If you want extra flavor, try using crumbled feta or pepper jack cheese for a little kick.
Ketchup or BBQ Sauce: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! You can use sriracha or a spicy mustard for a spicy twist on the glaze. I like to blend a bit of honey into the BBQ sauce for sweetness.
How Do I Mix the Meatloaf Without Making It Tough?
The key to a tender meatloaf is not to overmix the meat. Here are my tips:
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients gently using your hands or a spoon.
- The mixture should just come together; it’s okay if it’s a bit messy!
- When molding into a loaf, press gently to shape it in the pan, but don’t pack it tightly.
These tricks will help keep your meatloaf light and moist! Give it time to rest after baking before slicing – it helps the juices settle in.
Ranch Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (bottled or homemade)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 3/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for glaze)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ranch Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 55-65 minutes to bake. You’ll want to let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. So, in total, you should set aside about 1 hour and 30 minutes for a fantastic family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so that the meatloaf cooks evenly. While that’s heating up, light grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy serving later.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, milk, and optional shredded cheddar cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to combine gently until everything is just mixed. Remember, don’t overmix—this keeps your meatloaf nice and tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Carefully transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan, pressing it gently into shape. If using the free form method, mold it into a loaf shape on a lined baking sheet.
4. Add the Glaze:
Spread the ketchup or BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes while it bakes.
5. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. It should be beautifully brown and cooked through.
6. Let It Rest:
Once your meatloaf is out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a colorful touch and serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes and green beans. Enjoy your savory, moist Ranch Meatloaf filled with flavor!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just keep in mind that turkey meatloaf may require a little more moisture, so you might want to add an extra egg or a splash more milk.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze sliced meatloaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Meatloaf?
Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, serve it on a bun as a meatloaf sandwich!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your ranch dressing is also gluten-free to keep the entire dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
