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Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf Recipe

This easy Meatloaf Recipe is a comforting classic made with a blend of ground beef and pork, aromatics, and a tangy glaze. It’s simple to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with a homestyle meal. Moist, flavorful, and versatile, this dish invites customization and delivers satisfying, hearty bites every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

  • 1 pound ground beef and pork blend
  • 3/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh or dried parsley (or thyme/oregano)

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup ketchup (or preferred alternative like barbecue sauce or sriracha)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease your loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, finely chopped onion and garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently but thoroughly, using your hands or a spoon, without overworking the mixture.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long and 4 inches wide to promote uniform cooking.
  4. Add the Glaze: Spread an even layer of ketchup or your preferred sauce over the top of the loaf. The glaze will caramelize during baking, adding flavor and moisture.
  5. Bake Until Done: Bake the meatloaf for 55 to 65 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) to ensure it is fully cooked while remaining juicy.
  6. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set for easier slicing and better texture. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat ingredients to avoid a dense, tough texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and food safety.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps it hold together better and stay moist.
  • Soak breadcrumbs in milk instead of water for a richer, softer loaf.
  • Experiment with fresh or dried herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to elevate the flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, homestyle meal, family-friendly, baked meatloaf, weeknight dinner