Best 2 Depression Meat Loaf Recipes

Depression meatloaf is a dish that has been passed down through generations. It is named after its simple ingredients and accessible cooking process, meant to provide sustenance during the economic hardships of the Great Depression. With just a few inexpensive components, this recipe became a comforting staple for families, reflecting resilience in challenging times. Today, it remains popular as both a symbol of the past and a tasty meal that can be easily recreated in modern kitchens.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

DEPRESSION MEAT LOAF

Depression Meat Loaf image

Affordable and easy to make, Depression meatloaf is a dish your family is sure to love...and there's nothing depressing about that!

Provided by Moms Who Think

Categories Main Course

Time 1h15m

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1 can evaporated milk
5 slices bread
¾ cup chopped onion
1½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
2 pounds lean ground beef
⅓ cup ketchup, optional
3 strips bacon, optional

Steps:

In large bowl, pour milk over bread (let stand until milk is absorbed).
Add onion, salt, and pepper.
Stir with fork until bread softens and is light and fluffy.
Mix in ground beef.
Shape meat mixture into a loaf.
Place in a lightly greased baking loaf pan.
Spread top with ketchup (optional).
Lay strips of bacon the length of the loaf (optional).
Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.

DEPRESSION MEAT LOAF

Depression Meat Loaf image

This recipe really does date back to the 1930's. The secret to its "just-right" texture? It's all in the mixing process. You won't believe that such a grand meat loaf can be created from so few humble ingredients...until you try it for yourself!-Violet Heaton, Portland, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 1h10m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 6

Ingredients

1/2 cup evaporated milk
2 slices bread
1/4 cup chopped onion
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 pound lean ground beef

Steps:

In a large bowl, pour milk over bread. Let stand until the milk is absorbed. Add onion, salt and pepper. Stir with fork until bread softens and is light and fluffy. Mix in ground beef. In a shallow baking dish, shape into a 7x3x2-in. loaf. Bake at 350° for 50 minutes or until no pink remains.

Nutrition Facts :

Tips:

Choose the right ground beef: Use a lean ground beef, such as 80/20, for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. If you use a leaner ground beef, add some extra fat, such as butter or bacon grease, to keep it from drying out.
Add moisture to the meatloaf: To prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry, add some moisture, such as eggs, milk, or bread crumbs. You can also add vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or carrots, to add flavor and moisture.
Season the meatloaf well: Use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, to flavor the meatloaf. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices.
Cook the meatloaf at a low temperature: Cook the meatloaf at a low temperature, such as 325 degrees Fahrenheit, for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to keep the meatloaf moist and prevent it from becoming dry.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing: After the meatloaf is cooked, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it more flavorful.

Conclusion:

Depression meatloaf is a simple and comforting dish that can be easily made with a few basic ingredients. By following these tips, you can make a delicious and flavorful meatloaf that your whole family will enjoy.