We’ve all got a soft spot for classic comfort food, and our meatloaf recipe using Corn Flakes brings a fun twist to the table. It’s a hearty dish that’s easy to whip up for family dinners, adding that extra crunch from everyday pantry staples.
Originating from American home kitchens, meatloaf has been a go-to for generations. We’re sharing our version because it’s not only flavorful and moist but also a smart way to use Corn Flakes for a satisfying meal everyone will crave.
Ingredients
In our meatloaf recipe using Corn Flakes, we focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that deliver a moist, flavorful dish with a delightful crunch. This list is organized by the order of use, from base components to seasonings, ensuring easy preparation.
Main Components
- 1 pound ground beef (lean, for a juicy base that holds everything together)
- 1 cup Corn Flakes, crushed (our secret for adding a crispy texture and binding moisture—use a food processor or rolling pin for even crumbs)
Binders and Eggs
- 2 large eggs (beaten, to help lock in flavors and maintain the loaf’s structure)
- ½ cup milk (whole, for extra tenderness and to soften the Corn Flakes mixture)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (for a fresh, savory depth that enhances the overall taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (to infuse a robust aroma that complements the Corn Flakes’ crunch)
Seasonings and Toppings
- ¼ cup ketchup (for a tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on top)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (to add umami and a bold flavor profile)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for balancing the sweetness of the Corn Flakes)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, to provide a subtle kick)
Instructions
We walk you through each step of crafting our hearty meatloaf with Corn Flakes, building on the simple ingredients we’ve listed to create a moist, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family meals.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, gather and prep the components for easy assembly. Start by crushing 1 cup of Corn Flakes into fine crumbs using a food processor or a sealed bag and rolling pin, ensuring they add the ideal crunchy texture to our meatloaf. Next, peel and finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic to release their fresh, aromatic flavors that will infuse the mixture. Beat 2 large eggs in a small bowl until smooth and frothy for binding, and measure out ½ cup of whole milk to keep the loaf juicy and tender.
Mix and Form the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of lean ground beef with the crushed Corn Flakes, beaten eggs, milk, chopped onion, and minced garlic for a well-balanced base. Add ¼ cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, then gently mix everything by hand until just incorporated—overmixing can make the loaf tough, so aim for a uniform, slightly sticky consistency that promises a savory, mouthwatering result. Once mixed, shape the mixture into a loaf form on a greased baking sheet or loaf pan, pressing it firmly to create an even shape that will bake to golden perfection.
Bake the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 375°F for even cooking. Place the formed meatloaf in the center of the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer, resulting in a juicy, aromatic centerpiece with a crispy exterior. Halfway through baking, brush the top with extra ketchup for a glossy, tangy glaze that enhances the flavor and keeps the surface moist. Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to settle, making it easier to slice and serve.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Meatloaf Recipe Using Corn Flakes to life with ease and precision, we rely on essential tools that streamline each step from prep to baking. Below, we list the key items in the order they are typically used, ensuring a smooth cooking process.
- Measuring cups and spoons: We start with these for accurate measurements of ingredients like 1 cup of crushed Corn Flakes and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, helping maintain the recipe’s perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Next, we use a sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp knife to chop the onion and mince the garlic, allowing for quick, even cuts that enhance the dish’s aromatic profile.
- Food processor or rolling pin: For crushing the Corn Flakes, we recommend a food processor for speed or a rolling pin inside a resealable bag for a hands-on approach, creating the crispy texture that sets this meatloaf apart.
- Large mixing bowl: We mix the ground beef, eggs, and other ingredients in this bowl to form a uniform mixture, ensuring the meatloaf is moist and flavorful throughout.
- Baking dish or loaf pan: This is crucial for shaping and baking the meatloaf at 375°F, providing an even cook and that classic loaf form we all love.
- Pastry brush: We use this to apply ketchup on top before baking, giving the meatloaf a glossy, appetizing finish.
- Oven thermometer: For optimal results, we suggest an oven thermometer to verify the temperature, guaranteeing the meatloaf bakes to juicy perfection in 45 to 55 minutes.
- Cooling rack or plate: Finally, we let the meatloaf rest on this for 10 minutes post-baking, allowing juices to settle for easier slicing and serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Corn Flakes meatloaf is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare it in advance to simplify mealtimes without sacrificing that signature crunchy texture from the Corn Flakes. This approach lets us mix and shape the meatloaf ahead of time, then store it for later baking, ensuring a flavorful, moist dish ready when we need it.
Preparing and Storing the Meatloaf Mixture
To make ahead, follow these steps right after mixing the ingredients as outlined in our preparation section:
- Mix the ingredients early: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of lean ground beef, 1 cup of crushed Corn Flakes, 2 large beaten eggs, ½ cup of whole milk, 1 medium chopped onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, ¼ cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Shape the mixture into a loaf form in your baking dish.
- Refrigerate for short-term storage: Cover the shaped loaf tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld for even better taste.
- Freeze for longer storage: If we want to prepare further in advance, wrap the uncooked loaf securely in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thawing tip: Transfer it to the refrigerator 24 hours before baking to defrost safely.
Baking from Make-Ahead
When we’re ready to bake our Corn Flakes meatloaf, adjust the process slightly for optimal results:
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 375°F as specified in the original recipe.
- Handle refrigerated meatloaf: Remove the covering and bake directly. It may need 5-10 minutes less cooking time (so check at 40 minutes), as the chilled mixture starts from a cooler state.
- Handle frozen meatloaf: After thawing in the refrigerator, brush the top with extra ketchup for that glossy finish, then bake as per the recipe for 45 to 55 minutes. Use an oven thermometer to ensure even cooking and reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
By planning ahead with these steps, we maintain the dish’s juicy texture and crunchy Corn Flakes element, making it a go-to for effortless family dinners.
Conclusion
We’ve enjoyed exploring this fresh take on meatloaf with Corn Flakes. It’s a smart way to bring crunch and flavor to your table without the fuss.
We’re sure it’ll become a go-to for family nights and spark your creativity in the kitchen. Try it out and let us know your twists!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Corn Flakes meatloaf and why is it unique?
Corn Flakes meatloaf is a twist on the classic American comfort food, using crushed Corn Flakes for added crunch and texture. This version keeps the dish moist and flavorful while making it easy to prepare for family dinners. It’s a clever way to repurpose everyday cereal, blending traditional roots with a modern, satisfying crunch that appeals to all ages.
What ingredients are needed for this Corn Flakes meatloaf recipe?
You’ll need 1 pound of lean ground beef, 1 cup crushed Corn Flakes, 2 large beaten eggs, ½ cup whole milk, 1 chopped medium onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. These simple, high-quality ingredients ensure a juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a crunchy twist.
How do I prepare Corn Flakes meatloaf step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: crush Corn Flakes, chop onion, and mince garlic. Mix all ingredients in a bowl, shape into a loaf, and place in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 45-55 minutes, brushing the top with ketchup for a glossy finish. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This process is straightforward and takes about 1 hour total.
What tools and equipment are required for this recipe?
You’ll need measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a cutting board and sharp knife for chopping, a food processor or rolling pin to crush Corn Flakes, a large mixing bowl to combine ingredients, a baking dish or loaf pan for cooking, a pastry brush for ketchup, and an oven thermometer for precise baking. A cooling rack helps with resting.
Can I make Corn Flakes meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake refrigerated meatloaf as directed, adding a few extra minutes if frozen. This keeps the juicy texture and crunch intact, making it perfect for busy schedules and effortless family meals.
How long does it take to bake Corn Flakes meatloaf?
Bake at 375°F for 45 to 55 minutes, depending on your oven. Check for doneness when the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Rest for 10 minutes afterward to let juices settle, ensuring easy slicing and a moist result. This timing makes it a quick, convenient option for weeknight dinners.
Are there any substitutions for ingredients in this recipe?
You can substitute ground turkey for beef to lighten it up, or use breadcrumbs instead of Corn Flakes for a different texture. For moisture, almond milk works in place of whole milk if dairy-free. Keep seasonings similar to maintain flavor, but adjust salt based on preferences. Always test tweaks to ensure the meatloaf stays juicy and tasty.