Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf is a hearty and comforting dish that has been a staple in American households for generations. It’s made with ground beef, seasonings, breadcrumbs, and a delicious tangy glaze on top. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful meatloaf with a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic dinner that everyone will love!

Ingredients

To make this delicious meatloaf, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

2 pounds (900g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
½ cup whole milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)

For the Glaze:

½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, add the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes to help keep the meatloaf moist.
Add the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and mustard.
Mix everything together gently using your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense instead of tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan.
Shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s evenly formed for even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Save the rest for later.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, spread the remaining glaze over the top and return to the oven.
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf tender.
Slice and serve warm with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic meal.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve meatloaf warm with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
You can also serve leftovers in sandwiches with a slice of cheese and extra ketchup.

Storage Tips

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place slices in a microwave for 1-2 minutes or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips and Variations

Make it healthier: Use lean ground beef, ground turkey, or a mix of both.
Add vegetables: Finely chop bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy version: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Cheese-filled meatloaf: Stuff the center with shredded cheese for a gooey surprise.

This classic meatloaf is flavorful, moist, and easy to make. It’s the perfect comfort food that the whole family will enjoy. Give it a try and enjoy a homemade meal full of warmth and tradition!

For more details, visit the full recipe

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