Yes, you are reading it right—this is called Depression Meatloaf. There’s an interesting history behind its unusual name. This meatloaf was served quite frequently during the Great Depression because it’s budget-friendly with inexpensive ingredients. It sure is tasty, though, and I’m sure your family will love it as much as I do.

Serves 6–8 | Prep. time 10–15 minutes | Cooking time 60 minutes

Ingredients

¾ cup chopped onion

½ teaspoon pepper

1½ teaspoons salt

1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk

5 slices bread

⅓ cup ketchup (optional)

3 strips bacon (optional)

2 pounds lean ground beef

Directions

Combine the milk and bread in a medium-large bowl. Set aside to soak well.

Mix in the onion, salt and pepper. Stir the mixture until it turns fluffy.

Add the beef and shape the mixture into a loaf.

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or melted butter.

Add the loaf to the pan and top with the ketchup (optional).

Add the bacon strips over the ketchup (optional) and bake for about 1 hour.

Serve warm.