Classic Meatloaf – Easy, Delicious Comfort Food
This classic homemade meatloaf is savory, moist, and packed with rich flavors. It's a dish that brings comfort to the table and is loved by everyone for its simplicity and heartiness. The tender loaf is seasoned perfectly with herbs and spices, topped with a slightly sweet and tangy glaze, and baked to perfection. Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it a great option for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (for glaze)
Directions
Preheat oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the meatloaf. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Form the loaf. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
Prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix together the ½ cup of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Add the glaze. Spread half of the glaze mixture over the meatloaf. Reserve the other half for later.
Bake. Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
Glaze and finish. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and serve. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Recipe tips
For extra flavor, you can sauté the onions before adding them to the mixture. Add a mix of ground pork or veal to the beef for a different texture and richer taste. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the glaze. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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