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Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf Flavorful Family Meal

by on September 6, 2025

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Are you ready to impress your family with a dish that’s both tasty and simple? My Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf is a hit at the dinner table. With juicy meat and rich flavors, this classic meal transforms ordinary nights into something special. In this post, I’ll guide you through the easy steps, tips, and tasty variations. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

To make Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf, you need fresh and hearty ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: - 1 lb ground beef (80/20) - 1 lb ground turkey - 1 cup breadcrumbs (seasoned) - 3/4 cup milk - 1/4 cup ketchup - 1/4 cup barbecue sauce - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 large eggs These main ingredients create a rich and flavorful base for the meatloaf. The mix of ground beef and turkey keeps it juicy but not too heavy. The right seasonings and sauces enhance the flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to add: - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste These seasonings add depth and a touch of zest. The Worcestershire sauce brings umami, while Dijon mustard adds a slight tang. To take your meatloaf to the next level, consider these optional ingredients: - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adding cheese gives a creamy texture, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can mix it in or sprinkle it on top before serving. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start with a large bowl. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground turkey. Mix them gently. In another bowl, soak 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs in 3/4 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step is key for a moist meatloaf. Once soaked, add the breadcrumbs to the meat mix. Then, add 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce, and 1 finely chopped onion. Don’t forget 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Spice it up with 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well but don’t overdo it. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Now it’s time to shape the meatloaf. If you like cheese, fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at this stage. Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan. Shape it into a nice loaf. Smooth the top with your hands. This helps it cook evenly. Make sure it fits snugly in the pan for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. The meatloaf is ready when its internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). Once done, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps keep the juices inside. Serve warm and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your meal! To get the right texture, you need to mix well but not too much. Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough. Use your hands to blend the meats gently. This keeps it light and tender. Adding soaked breadcrumbs helps too, as they trap moisture. Letting them sit in milk makes them soft and fluffy. Flavor is key to a great meatloaf. Use fresh onion and garlic for a strong taste. The mix of ketchup and barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick. Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce; it gives depth. Herbs like thyme and oregano brighten the flavors. If you like cheese, fold in shredded cheddar for a creamy surprise. Avoid using lean meat only; it can dry out your meatloaf. A mix of beef and turkey keeps it juicy. Also, don’t skip letting it rest after baking. This step keeps the juices in. Lastly, ensure you measure your seasonings accurately. Too much salt can ruin the dish, so taste as you go! Pro Tips Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the center. It should read 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain its juices and makes it easier to slice. Add Flavor with Toppings: For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping your meatloaf with additional barbecue sauce or a glaze made from ketchup and brown sugar before baking. Experiment with Meats: Don't hesitate to mix different types of ground meat, such as pork or chicken, for varied flavors and textures in your meatloaf. {{image_2}} You can mix and match meats for your meatloaf. Ground beef and turkey create a nice balance. If you want a leaner option, use only turkey. For a richer flavor, try ground pork or lamb. You can also use a mix of meats. This gives you a unique taste each time. Adding extra ingredients can make your meatloaf special. Try adding chopped bell peppers or carrots. They give a pop of color and flavor. You can also mix in cooked bacon for a smoky taste. If you love cheese, add some shredded mozzarella or pepper jack. Each ingredient adds its own flair to the dish. The topping can change your meatloaf game. Instead of just ketchup, try a mix of ketchup and barbecue sauce for sweetness. You can also use a layer of cheese on top for a gooey finish. If you're feeling adventurous, brush on some teriyaki sauce for a different twist. The right topping can make your meatloaf shine. To keep your meatloaf fresh, let it cool first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. If you have a large piece, slice it before storing. This helps it chill faster and makes it easy to grab for meals. When you want to reheat your meatloaf, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave if you're in a hurry. Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for one to two minutes. Check that it's warm all the way through. If you want to save meatloaf for later, freezing works great. Wrap the whole meatloaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Label it with the date. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven or microwave. This keeps the meatloaf tasty and moist. Yes, you can mix meats for your meatloaf. Ground beef and turkey work great together. You may also use ground pork or chicken. Each meat brings a unique flavor and texture. Just keep the ratio similar to maintain the moisture. You want your meatloaf to stay tender and juicy. Meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Here are some favorites: - Mashed potatoes - Steamed green beans - Roasted carrots - Creamy coleslaw - Corn on the cob These sides balance the hearty meatloaf. They add color and nutrition to your meal. To check if your meatloaf is ready, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center. The meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the loaf. It should be brown and not pink inside. Letting it rest for ten minutes helps keep it moist. In this blog post, we explored key ingredients for a tender Million Dollar Meatloaf. We walked through step-by-step instructions for prepping, assembling, and baking. I shared tips to achieve perfect texture and avoid common mistakes. You also learned various meatloaf variations and proper storage tips. Finally, I answered common questions, like cooking time and side dish ideas. Remember, customizing your meatloaf can make it truly unique. Enjoy making your perfect meatloaf that your family will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: This meatloaf combines the rich taste of ground beef with the lean protein of turkey, resulting in a flavorful and moist dish.
  2. Cheesy Surprise: Adding shredded cheddar cheese brings a delightful melty texture that enhances the overall enjoyment of each bite.
  3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
  4. Great for Leftovers: This meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or family dinners.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf

To make Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf, you need fresh and hearty ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 lb ground beef (80/20)

– 1 lb ground turkey

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (seasoned)

– 3/4 cup milk

– 1/4 cup ketchup

– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce

– 1 large onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 large eggs

These main ingredients create a rich and flavorful base for the meatloaf. The mix of ground beef and turkey keeps it juicy but not too heavy.

Seasonings and Sauces

The right seasonings and sauces enhance the flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to add:

– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

These seasonings add depth and a touch of zest. The Worcestershire sauce brings umami, while Dijon mustard adds a slight tang.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

To take your meatloaf to the next level, consider these optional ingredients:

– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Adding cheese gives a creamy texture, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can mix it in or sprinkle it on top before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Meat Mixture

Start with a large bowl. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground turkey. Mix them gently. In another bowl, soak 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs in 3/4 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step is key for a moist meatloaf. Once soaked, add the breadcrumbs to the meat mix. Then, add 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce, and 1 finely chopped onion. Don’t forget 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Spice it up with 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well but don’t overdo it. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Assembling the Meatloaf

Now it’s time to shape the meatloaf. If you like cheese, fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at this stage. Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan. Shape it into a nice loaf. Smooth the top with your hands. This helps it cook evenly. Make sure it fits snugly in the pan for the best results.

Baking Your Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. The meatloaf is ready when its internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). Once done, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps keep the juices inside. Serve warm and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get the right texture, you need to mix well but not too much. Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough. Use your hands to blend the meats gently. This keeps it light and tender. Adding soaked breadcrumbs helps too, as they trap moisture. Letting them sit in milk makes them soft and fluffy.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Flavor is key to a great meatloaf. Use fresh onion and garlic for a strong taste. The mix of ketchup and barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick. Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce; it gives depth. Herbs like thyme and oregano brighten the flavors. If you like cheese, fold in shredded cheddar for a creamy surprise.

Key Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid using lean meat only; it can dry out your meatloaf. A mix of beef and turkey keeps it juicy. Also, don’t skip letting it rest after baking. This step keeps the juices in. Lastly, ensure you measure your seasonings accurately. Too much salt can ruin the dish, so taste as you go!

Pro Tips

  1. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the center. It should read 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
  2. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain its juices and makes it easier to slice.
  3. Add Flavor with Toppings: For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping your meatloaf with additional barbecue sauce or a glaze made from ketchup and brown sugar before baking.
  4. Experiment with Meats: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of ground meat, such as pork or chicken, for varied flavors and textures in your meatloaf.

Variations

Meatloaf with Different Meats

You can mix and match meats for your meatloaf. Ground beef and turkey create a nice balance. If you want a leaner option, use only turkey. For a richer flavor, try ground pork or lamb. You can also use a mix of meats. This gives you a unique taste each time.

Add-In Ingredients for Customization

Adding extra ingredients can make your meatloaf special. Try adding chopped bell peppers or carrots. They give a pop of color and flavor. You can also mix in cooked bacon for a smoky taste. If you love cheese, add some shredded mozzarella or pepper jack. Each ingredient adds its own flair to the dish.

Alternative Toppings and Sauces

The topping can change your meatloaf game. Instead of just ketchup, try a mix of ketchup and barbecue sauce for sweetness. You can also use a layer of cheese on top for a gooey finish. If you’re feeling adventurous, brush on some teriyaki sauce for a different twist. The right topping can make your meatloaf shine.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Meatloaf

To keep your meatloaf fresh, let it cool first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. If you have a large piece, slice it before storing. This helps it chill faster and makes it easy to grab for meals.

Reheating Instructions

When you want to reheat your meatloaf, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for one to two minutes. Check that it’s warm all the way through.

Freezing and Thawing Tips

If you want to save meatloaf for later, freezing works great. Wrap the whole meatloaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Label it with the date. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven or microwave. This keeps the meatloaf tasty and moist.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can mix meats for your meatloaf. Ground beef and turkey work great together. You may also use ground pork or chicken. Each meat brings a unique flavor and texture. Just keep the ratio similar to maintain the moisture. You want your meatloaf to stay tender and juicy.

What are some side dishes to serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Here are some favorites:

– Mashed potatoes

– Steamed green beans

– Roasted carrots

– Creamy coleslaw

– Corn on the cob

These sides balance the hearty meatloaf. They add color and nutrition to your meal.

How do I know when meatloaf is done?

To check if your meatloaf is ready, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center. The meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the loaf. It should be brown and not pink inside. Letting it rest for ten minutes helps keep it moist.

In this blog post, we explored key ingredients for a tender Million Dollar Meatloaf. We walked through step-by-step instructions for prepping, assembling, and baking. I shared tips to achieve perfect texture and avoid common mistakes. You also learned various meatloaf variations and proper storage tips. Finally, I answered common questions, like cooking time and side dish ideas. Remember, customizing your meatloaf can make it truly unique. Enjoy making your perfect meatloaf that your family will lov

To make Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf, you need fresh and hearty ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: - 1 lb ground beef (80/20) - 1 lb ground turkey - 1 cup breadcrumbs (seasoned) - 3/4 cup milk - 1/4 cup ketchup - 1/4 cup barbecue sauce - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 large eggs These main ingredients create a rich and flavorful base for the meatloaf. The mix of ground beef and turkey keeps it juicy but not too heavy. The right seasonings and sauces enhance the flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to add: - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste These seasonings add depth and a touch of zest. The Worcestershire sauce brings umami, while Dijon mustard adds a slight tang. To take your meatloaf to the next level, consider these optional ingredients: - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adding cheese gives a creamy texture, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can mix it in or sprinkle it on top before serving. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start with a large bowl. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground turkey. Mix them gently. In another bowl, soak 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs in 3/4 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step is key for a moist meatloaf. Once soaked, add the breadcrumbs to the meat mix. Then, add 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce, and 1 finely chopped onion. Don’t forget 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Spice it up with 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well but don’t overdo it. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Now it’s time to shape the meatloaf. If you like cheese, fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at this stage. Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan. Shape it into a nice loaf. Smooth the top with your hands. This helps it cook evenly. Make sure it fits snugly in the pan for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. The meatloaf is ready when its internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). Once done, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps keep the juices inside. Serve warm and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your meal! To get the right texture, you need to mix well but not too much. Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough. Use your hands to blend the meats gently. This keeps it light and tender. Adding soaked breadcrumbs helps too, as they trap moisture. Letting them sit in milk makes them soft and fluffy. Flavor is key to a great meatloaf. Use fresh onion and garlic for a strong taste. The mix of ketchup and barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick. Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce; it gives depth. Herbs like thyme and oregano brighten the flavors. If you like cheese, fold in shredded cheddar for a creamy surprise. Avoid using lean meat only; it can dry out your meatloaf. A mix of beef and turkey keeps it juicy. Also, don’t skip letting it rest after baking. This step keeps the juices in. Lastly, ensure you measure your seasonings accurately. Too much salt can ruin the dish, so taste as you go! Pro Tips Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the center. It should read 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain its juices and makes it easier to slice. Add Flavor with Toppings: For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping your meatloaf with additional barbecue sauce or a glaze made from ketchup and brown sugar before baking. Experiment with Meats: Don't hesitate to mix different types of ground meat, such as pork or chicken, for varied flavors and textures in your meatloaf. {{image_2}} You can mix and match meats for your meatloaf. Ground beef and turkey create a nice balance. If you want a leaner option, use only turkey. For a richer flavor, try ground pork or lamb. You can also use a mix of meats. This gives you a unique taste each time. Adding extra ingredients can make your meatloaf special. Try adding chopped bell peppers or carrots. They give a pop of color and flavor. You can also mix in cooked bacon for a smoky taste. If you love cheese, add some shredded mozzarella or pepper jack. Each ingredient adds its own flair to the dish. The topping can change your meatloaf game. Instead of just ketchup, try a mix of ketchup and barbecue sauce for sweetness. You can also use a layer of cheese on top for a gooey finish. If you're feeling adventurous, brush on some teriyaki sauce for a different twist. The right topping can make your meatloaf shine. To keep your meatloaf fresh, let it cool first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. If you have a large piece, slice it before storing. This helps it chill faster and makes it easy to grab for meals. When you want to reheat your meatloaf, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave if you're in a hurry. Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for one to two minutes. Check that it's warm all the way through. If you want to save meatloaf for later, freezing works great. Wrap the whole meatloaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Label it with the date. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven or microwave. This keeps the meatloaf tasty and moist. Yes, you can mix meats for your meatloaf. Ground beef and turkey work great together. You may also use ground pork or chicken. Each meat brings a unique flavor and texture. Just keep the ratio similar to maintain the moisture. You want your meatloaf to stay tender and juicy. Meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Here are some favorites: - Mashed potatoes - Steamed green beans - Roasted carrots - Creamy coleslaw - Corn on the cob These sides balance the hearty meatloaf. They add color and nutrition to your meal. To check if your meatloaf is ready, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center. The meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the loaf. It should be brown and not pink inside. Letting it rest for ten minutes helps keep it moist. In this blog post, we explored key ingredients for a tender Million Dollar Meatloaf. We walked through step-by-step instructions for prepping, assembling, and baking. I shared tips to achieve perfect texture and avoid common mistakes. You also learned various meatloaf variations and proper storage tips. Finally, I answered common questions, like cooking time and side dish ideas. Remember, customizing your meatloaf can make it truly unique. Enjoy making your perfect meatloaf that your family will love!

Tender Million Dollar Meatloaf

A delicious and moist meatloaf made with a blend of ground beef and turkey, seasoned to perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (seasoned)
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground turkey. Mix gently to combine.
  • In a separate bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk and let them sit for about 5 minutes until absorbed.
  • Add the soaked breadcrumbs to the meat mixture along with ketchup, barbecue sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Combine all the ingredients thoroughly, but do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
  • If using, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for a delicious melty surprise in the center.
  • Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Smooth out the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  • Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
  • Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Keyword beef, comfort food, meatloaf, turkey

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