Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe

Me and my sister were planning to make something special for our family dinner. We wanted a dish that felt like a warm hug, so we started looking online for ideas. That’s when we stumbled upon Brenda Gantt’s Meatloaf Recipe. We both love her down-home Southern cooking, so it was an easy choice! Brenda’s recipes always remind us of family, tradition, and sitting around the table together.

We grabbed our aprons, headed to the kitchen, and got started. The ingredients were simple, the instructions were easy to follow, and we knew this meatloaf would turn out amazing. By the time we finished, the whole house smelled like comfort and love. Dinner was about to be unforgettable.

What is Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe?

The Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe is a traditional Southern-style meatloaf that stands out for its simplicity and rich flavor. It uses everyday ingredients like ground beef, onions, crackers (or oatmeal for a gluten-free option), and a colorful mix of peppers. What makes it unique is the way Brenda shapes the meatloaf and adds a tomato sauce topping, creating a delicious, juicy loaf that’s full of home-cooked goodness.

Brenda’s recipe doesn’t require any fancy techniques or complicated ingredients. It’s the perfect dish for feeding a family or making ahead for a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch a pound of ground beef into a hearty meal!

Why You Will Love Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe

I absolutely love Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf recipe! It’s so easy to make, and I usually have all the ingredients right at home, which is a huge plus for me.

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can add your favorite veggies, swap in different seasonings, or even change up the meat if you prefer.

The flavors are incredible! The meatloaf comes out so moist, and the crackers really help stretch the meat. It makes the dish more filling without losing any taste. The best part is that my whole family loves it, even the picky eaters.

And let’s not forget about leftovers! This meatloaf tastes just as good the next day. I can enjoy it for lunch or dinner without any extra effort, and it’s still amazing. It’s the perfect go-to recipe for busy nights when I need a meal that’s both delicious and easy.

What Is in Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe? (Ingredients)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious meatloaf:

• Ground Beef: 2 lbs. (regular hamburger meat, not lean ground chuck).
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped.
• Crackers: 1 sleeve of saltine crackers, crushed (or about 1 cup of oatmeal for a gluten-free option).
• Sweet Peppers: 2-3 small sweet peppers, chopped into thin strips (red, yellow, or orange).
• Egg: 1 large egg to bind the meatloaf together.
• Tomato Sauce: 1 can (28 ounces) divided into the meat mixture and topping.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Olive Oil: For greasing the pan.
• Water: About 1 cup to add to the pan while baking.

Recipe Substitutions

1. Ground Meat: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
2. Crackers: Use gluten-free crackers, oats, or even breadcrumbs.
3. Peppers: If sweet peppers aren’t available, use green bell peppers or skip them altogether.
4. Tomato Sauce: Ketchup or barbecue sauce can be used for a different flavor.

How To Make Brenda Gantt Meatloaf Recipe (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step 1| Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Finely chop the onion and slice the sweet peppers into thin strips. Crush the crackers by placing them in a zip-lock bag and pressing them with your hands.

Step 2 | Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, crushed crackers, sweet peppers, and one egg.
Add about 1/3 of the tomato sauce to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3 | Shape the Meatloaf

Grease a broiler pan with olive oil. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the solid part of the broiler pan (not the slotted part). Use your thumbs to create a small valley in the middle of the loaf.

Step 4 | Add the Topping

Pour the remaining tomato sauce into the valley on top of the meatloaf. Spread it evenly across the top.

Step 5 | Bake the Meatloaf

Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the broiler pan. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Step 6 | Serve

Cut the meatloaf into thick slices and place them on individual plates.

Recipe Notes

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the meatloaf dense.
• Use a Broiler Pan: It helps drain the excess grease and makes cleanup easier.
• Make it Juicy: Adding water to the pan keeps the meatloaf moist while baking.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Recipe Variations and Additions to Try

• Add Cheese: Mix in shredded cheese for a gooey surprise inside.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Herbs and Spices: Try adding garlic, parsley, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Stuffed Meatloaf: Fill the center with cooked spinach, mushrooms, or even mashed potatoes for a fun twist.

Perfect Sides to Pair with Brenda Gantt’s Meatloaf

• Classic Meal: Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans. The creamy potatoes and fresh green beans balance the savory meatloaf perfectly.
• Comforting Combo: Serve with a side salad and warm, buttery garlic bread. The salad adds a refreshing touch, while the garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Leftover Idea: Use leftover meatloaf for sandwiches the next day. Add cheese and ketchup for a delicious lunch that’s just as tasty as the first meal.

Storage Tips for Brenda Gantt’s Meatloaf

Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf is so delicious, you’ll want to enjoy it for days! Here are some easy storage tips to keep it fresh

• Refrigerate: After enjoying your meal, store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed will help prevent it from drying out and will keep the flavors intact. Just make sure to store it in a container that fits the amount of leftover meatloaf to avoid air exposure.
• Freeze: If you want to save meatloaf for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container to protect them from freezer burn. This will keep the meatloaf fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pull out as much as you need and reheat.
• Reheat: To reheat leftover meatloaf, place it in the oven at 350°F and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can microwave individual slices for a quicker option. Either way, your meatloaf will taste just as delicious as when it was first made!

Everything You Need to Know About Gantt Meatloaf

1. Can I use ground chuck instead of regular hamburger meat?

Absolutely! Ground chuck works great and can provide a slightly different flavor. Just be aware it’s leaner, so you might need to adjust the moisture by adding a bit more tomato sauce.

2. How long does it take to cook the meatloaf?

Typically, it takes about 1 hour at 350°F. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F internally.

3. Can I prepare the meatloaf in advance?

Yes! You can mix and shape the meatloaf a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just add the tomato sauce before baking.

4. What’s the best way to prevent the meatloaf from being dry?

Don’t overcook it, use a meat thermometer, and consider adding a bit of extra moisture like tomato sauce or a splash of broth.

5. Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze both raw and cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

6. How many people does this recipe serve?

Depending on portion sizes, this recipe can serve 6-8 people.

7. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

While possible, the broiler pan method is recommended for the best texture and to drain excess grease.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed learning to make Brenda Gantt’s meatloaf recipe! It’s a simple, comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The flavors are rich, the meatloaf is tender, and it’s the perfect meal to serve when you’re looking for something hearty and delicious. 

I can’t wait for you to try it out and see how it turns out! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your experience and let me know how the recipe worked for you in the comments below. If you’re looking for more tasty and easy recipes, be sure to follow us on Pinterest.