Its all in the lean-to-fat ratio.

Her answer was refreshingly straightforward, too.

It all comes down to a ratio that even I can remember without checking my phone!

Closeup of a meatloaf with one slice cut off

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It isn’t just about numbers, though.

It’s about literal chemistry.

This definingpercentageaffects the taste and texture of meatloaf in several different ways.

Closeup of meatloaf partly sliced on on a plate with a side of mashed potatoes

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However, too much fat can make your meatloaf excessively greasy."

Ground chuck is the cut of meat that best delivers the golden ratio.

If you’re custom ordering, you’re free to also request different grinds.

To layer in flavors and experiment with textures, consider combining proteins in your meatloaf.

Great meatloaf isn’t about fancy ingredients or complicated techniques but starting with the right foundation.