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Classic Meatloaf

Classic Meatloaf
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A comforting and timeless Classic Meatloaf recipe made with ground beef, simple pantry ingredients, and a tangy ketchup glaze. This hearty dish delivers balanced seasoning, moist texture, and nostalgic flavor that satisfies the whole family. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or leftovers for sandwiches the next day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar or mustard for glaze variation

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, finely diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently but thoroughly mix everything together. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press it gently so it holds the form but remains loosely packed.
  4. Add the Glaze: Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Optionally, mix ketchup with a bit of brown sugar or mustard for a deeper flavor glaze before spreading.
  5. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to seal in the juices.

Notes

  • Don’t overwork the meat mixture to avoid a dense and tough meatloaf.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to keep slices moist and tender.
  • Add moisture with milk or soaked bread crumbs to prevent dryness.
  • Customize the glaze using barbecue sauce, tomato paste, or ketchup blends to suit your taste preferences.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, baked meatloaf

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/classic-meatloaf/