Martha's Childhood Meatloaf Recipe Is Pure Comfort—Here’s How to Make It

Most home cooks have a repertoire of classic dinnertime staples that they make on a regular basis—and Martha and her mother were no exception.

In a video from one of her cooking shows that was recently posted to Instagram, Martha demonstrates how to make Mrs. Kostyra's Meatloaf. Martha says that her mother, affectionately called "Big Martha," used to make this classic dish at least once a week.

In the clip, she starts by making breadcrumbs using four slices white bread, which are ground in a food processor. Martha notes that her mother never bought bread crumbs—she always made them. The bread crumbs are then added to 2 1/2 pounds of ground beef. The original recipe calls for ground beef, but Martha points out in the caption that you can add veal and pork for a more tender loaf.

Next, onion, garlic, celery, carrots, and parsley are pulsed in the food processor until fine and added to the mixture. She then incorporates an egg, ketchup, dry mustard, salt, and pepper and combines it all thoroughly before packing it into a loaf pan.

For the topping, Martha mixes ketchup, dry mustard, and brown sugar, which is then brushed over the meatloaf. She places the pan in the oven and says to cook the meatloaf until a thermometer inserted in the center reads 160 degrees Fahrenheit, about 90 minutes.

Don't Miss

The Story Behind Martha’s Nostalgic (but Controversial) Onion Sandwich—Plus, How to Make It

I'm a Food Editor Who Makes Martha’s One-Pan Pasta All the Time—Here's Why It's So Good

"Nothing says home cooking like meatloaf, and it’s all the better when it’s an old family recipe, like this one from Big Martha. This all-American favorite is best served with a pile of buttery mashed potatoes and your family’s favorite vegetable," the caption says.

Many commenters on the Instagram post endorsed the recipe, saying "I made this today and it was so so delicious!" and "By far the best meatloaf recipe I have ever made!!"