Preserving homemade comfort food can be both practical and rewarding, and meatloaf is no exception. When prepared and pressure-canned correctly, meatloaf can become a shelf-stable meal that’s ready whenever you need it. The key is following safe canning practices from start to finish. Before getting started, make sure you have a pressure canner (not a water bath), clean jars, new lids, bands, and all ingredients measured and ready. Organization is essential for both safety and efficiency.
A flavorful meatloaf mixture holds up best during storage. Start by combining ground beef with finely chopped onion and garlic, crushed crackers for structure, eggs for binding, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, parsley, mustard powder, and a touch of brown sugar. Ketchup adds moisture and balance. Mix thoroughly but avoid overworking the meat, as even blending helps preserve texture after canning. Prepare jars according to standard guidelines, keeping everything clean and sanitary.
Pack the raw meatloaf mixture tightly into jars, gently pressing to remove trapped air. Leave about 1¼ inches of headspace to allow for expansion during processing. Clean the rims carefully, apply the lids, and secure bands fingertip-tight. Place the jars into the pressure canner with the required amount of water. Vent steam for 10 minutes, then bring the canner to 10 pounds of pressure and process for 90 minutes, maintaining steady pressure throughout.
When processing is complete, allow the canner to cool naturally—never force the pressure down. After removing the jars, let them rest undisturbed for 24 hours before checking seals. Properly sealed lids will be firm and slightly curved inward. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used promptly. When ready to enjoy, canned meatloaf reheats easily, making it a convenient, satisfying option for busy days while still tasting homemade.