Description
Hearty American Classic Meatloaf delivers comfort with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings blended into a robust dinner centerpiece. Juicy slices paired with creamy mashed potatoes complete this nostalgic meal that warms souls and satisfies hunger.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Protein:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) ground beef (85 – 90 % lean)
- 2 large eggs
Aromatic and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 cup onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain, panko or seasoned)
- ⅓ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon dried or fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon dried or fresh oregano
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Sauce and Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Chill the ground beef mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing flavors to meld and develop a more cohesive texture.
- Thoroughly combine ground beef, minced garlic, diced onion, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Gently form the meat mixture into a compact loaf shape, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can result in a tough texture.
- Transfer the shaped meatloaf to the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform height for even cooking.
- Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, allowing the meat to cook through and develop a rich, golden exterior.
- While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients in a small bowl until thoroughly blended and smooth.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 45 minutes and generously brush the prepared glaze over the entire surface.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and return the meatloaf to the oven.
- Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 7 minutes after removing from the oven, which allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender result.
- Slice the meatloaf into even portions and serve alongside your preferred side dishes, enjoying the rich, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by letting the meat mixture rest in the refrigerator, allowing ingredients to meld together and develop a richer taste profile.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F, preventing any risk of foodborne illness.
- Create a glossy, caramelized exterior by applying the glaze during the final baking stage, which adds a delicious sweet and tangy finish.
- Choose lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to balance moisture and prevent the meatloaf from becoming too greasy.
- Opt for parchment paper or a lined baking dish to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it retain juices and make slicing cleaner and more precise.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg