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Classic Meatloaf Recipe

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4.3 from 11 reviews

This Classic Meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with a flavorful mix of seasonings, breadcrumbs, and a tangy glaze topping. Baked to perfection, this hearty and comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a tender, juicy texture and a delicious balance of savory and sweet flavors. Ready in just over an hour, it serves seven and makes a satisfying main course.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Mixture

  • 1 large egg
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ cup minced onion
  • 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20)

Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. In another small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mince the onion finely.
  2. Combine Mixtures: In a large bowl, add the ground beef, egg mixture, breadcrumb mixture, and minced onion. Use your hands to gently combine all ingredients until evenly mixed, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can cause a dense texture.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a rimmed baking dish. Shape it into a loaf approximately 4 inches wide, 8 inches long, and 2 inches tall, ensuring an even shape for uniform cooking.
  4. Prepare the Glaze: In a separate small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard until smooth. This glaze adds a flavorful sweet and tangy crust.
  5. Apply Glaze: Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top and sides of the shaped meatloaf, ensuring full coverage to enhance flavor and moisture retention.
  6. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 165ºF is reached. This ensures the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  7. Rest and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice and ensuring moist, tender servings. Slice and serve as desired.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meat to avoid a tough meatloaf.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165ºF for safety.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest after baking improves slicing and juiciness.
  • Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or oats if preferred.
  • Customize the glaze by adding a bit of hot sauce or herbs for extra flavor.