Description
Hearty classic meatloaf delivers comfort and nostalgia with rich, savory flavors from ground beef, herbs, and a tangy glaze. Homemade comfort shines through this simple yet satisfying dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) ground beef
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) breadcrumbs
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauce:
- 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring an even cooking environment for the meatloaf.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Gently blend the ingredients until just incorporated, being careful not to compact the mixture, which could result in a dense texture.
- Carefully form the meat mixture into a cohesive loaf, transferring it to a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper or placing it in a standard loaf pan.
- Create a tangy glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a separate small bowl until smooth and well-blended.
- Generously brush the entire surface of the meatloaf with the prepared glaze, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature reaches a safe 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes, which helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Slice into thick, hearty portions and serve hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Prevent dense texture by gently mixing ingredients without compressing the meat too much.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for dietary flexibility and lighter protein options.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise doneness and food safety without drying out the meatloaf.
- Create extra flavor by adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture for a fresh aromatic boost.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg