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The Best Meatloaf Recipe

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4.3 from 7 reviews

This classic meatloaf recipe features a flavorful blend of lean ground beef, Italian seasonings, and a deliciously tangy chili-ketchup glaze. It is easy to prepare, baked to perfection, and perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

Meatloaf

  • ½ medium onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon butter
  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ¾ cup Italian bread crumbs (or seasoned breadcrumbs)
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup (or chili sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Meatloaf Sauce

  • ½ cup chili sauce
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Onions: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onions and cook gently until tender and translucent. Remove from heat and let cool completely to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step prematurely.
  3. Mix Eggs, Milk, and Breadcrumbs: In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, and Italian bread crumbs. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid and soften.
  4. Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: Add the ground beef, cooled cooked onions, 1 tablespoon of ketchup or chili sauce, Italian seasoning, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
  5. Form and Bake: Shape the mixture into an 8 inch by 4 inch loaf on the prepared baking pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 40 minutes.
  6. Prepare Sauce and Finish Baking: While the meatloaf is baking, combine the chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar (if using) in a bowl and stir well. After the initial 40 minutes, spread this sauce evenly over the meatloaf. Return to oven and bake for another 15 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Optionally, broil the meatloaf for 1-2 minutes at the end for a caramelized glaze.
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat while keeping the meatloaf moist.
  • Allowing the breadcrumbs to soak in milk and eggs ensures a tender texture.
  • You can substitute Italian seasoning with a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme if desired.
  • Brown sugar in the sauce adds sweetness and balances the acidity but can be omitted for a less sweet taste.
  • Broiling at the end is optional but enhances the glaze with a nice caramelized finish.
  • Ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F for safe consumption.

Find it online: https://simpleplatter.com/the-best-meatloaf-recipe/