Fitness / September 22, 2024

Meatloaf Seasoning

Cook the meatloaf that beats all other meatloaves with this fantastic seasoning blend!

Table of Contents

For many Americans, meatloaf is a household staple. A loved one may have been making meatloaf for you since you were young, and now perhaps you are making it for those you love today. But not all of us grew up enjoying meatloaf, myself included, and therefore may not have a great meatloaf seasoning in their cookbook. And if you’re going to make a meatloaf, you NEED a great meatloaf seasoning, as cooking ground beef unseasoned would not be good for anyone. Therefore, I have for you today a deliciously smokey and inviting meatloaf seasoning recipe to use the next time (or first time!) you decide to cook meatloaf.

As I stated previously, you just cannot have bland meatloaf. There is so much more to life than bland flavor, my friends! A meatloaf that packs a flavorful punch and is seasoned to juicy perfection is what you need and deserve. This seasoning does just that with a blend of spices that will create depth, smokiness, and freshness without a lot of effort. In just three quick minutes (yes you read that right… three!) you will have the perfect mix of spices for all your future meatloaves.

Alexa, play “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” by Meatloaf; it’s time to get pumped in the kitchen!

Is Meatloaf Seasoning Healthy?

This meatloaf seasoning is made up of dried spices, which are low in calories and can add flavor without adding unhealthy fats or sugars. That being said, this seasoning alone is relatively healthy but it does not promote any additional health benefits. The healthiness level is mostly going to come from your meatloaf recipe. A traditional meatloaf calls for ground beef, which is a fatter meat choice. When cooking your meatloaf, you can opt for a lean ground beef or ground turkey to offset some of the fat content.

How to heighten the flavor of meatloaf seasoning?

The great thing about this recipe for meatloaf seasoning is that it uses spices many of us already have at home. But if you don’t have a few of the listed spices or are simply looking to heighten the flavor of your meatloaf seasoning, then here are a couple of tips for you.

Instead of table salt, you could use kosher or sea salt as many believe they have a more pure, clean flavor. You could even buy the coarse version of either and put the crystals in a salt grinder for freshly ground salt. You could also use peppercorns in a pepper grinder instead of pre-ground pepper to enhance the flavor. Additional spice swaps you could do would be granulated garlic and onion, dried sprigs of basil and thyme, and experimenting with different paprikas to find your preferred flavor.

INGREDIENTS

2 tsp paprika
2 tsp ground mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp dried thyme

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix

Combine all spices.

Store

Use immediately or store for later.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store

Your meatloaf seasoning can be stored in an airtight glass container for up to 6 months, which means many easy-to-prep meatloaves in your future! Just make sure to keep your seasoning mixture in a cool, dry place away from the sun in order to prevent the deterioration of your spices. Also, use a glass jar, as plastic containers can absorb oils from the spices.

Balance the spices to your liking

I do include measurements in the meatloaf seasoning recipe below, however, please adjust to your own taste if needed. For example, you can use more or less salt and still achieve a delicious meatloaf. At the end of the day, the best meatloaf for you is the one you like, so make any adjustments you need for your own ultimate satisfaction.

bring on the sweet and spicy!

If you try and like the seasoning below but feel it needs something, you can always go a sweet or spicy route depending on your favorite flavor profile. A touch of brown sugar will create a lovely sweetness to the spice mix, complementing the paprika and dried mustard. Or, if you’re a spice lover like me, a hint of cayenne pepper could give your meatloaf the zing you’re looking for.

Serving Suggestions

The most obvious recommendation I’m going to have for your meatloaf seasoning is…drum roll please…meatloaf! We have multiple great meatloaf recipes listed on FFF, including an inviting Italian Meatloaf, a Turkey Alternative Meatloaf, and even a nice Low-Carb and Paleo Meatloaf.

You could also whip up some classic meatloaf sides such as Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Oven-Roasted Vegetables, or maybe even some Onion Rings. Yum! If you’re looking to cut the richness of a delicious meatloaf, a side salad would do wonders. I particularly like this Broccoli Apple Salad with Greek Yogurt.