Description
This easy meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food made with ground beef and a flavorful blend of breadcrumbs, milk, and seasonings. Topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, it bakes to juicy perfection and is perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Glaze
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid making the meat mixture dense.
- Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or form it into a loaf shape on a lined baking sheet, ensuring it is evenly packed for uniform cooking.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard if using. This glaze will add a sweet and tangy finish to your meatloaf.
- Apply Glaze: Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the formed meatloaf to create a flavorful crust while baking.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, making slices moist and tender before serving.
Notes
- For a moister meatloaf, you can substitute half the beef with ground pork or add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Feel free to customize the glaze by omitting the Dijon mustard or adding a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety and avoid overcooking.
- Leftover meatloaf makes great sandwiches and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers or oats depending on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
