why make this recipe

Classic meatloaf is a comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. It’s simple to make and offers great flavor without complicated ingredients. Plus, it’s an excellent way to turn ground beef into a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. Whether it’s served with mashed potatoes or fresh vegetables, meatloaf is a satisfying dish that can easily be tailored to your taste.

how to make Classic Meatloaf

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (80-85% lean)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 large eggs
3/4 cup milk
3/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp white vinegar
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, garlic, 1/4 cup ketchup, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze. Continue baking for another 15-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

how to serve Classic Meatloaf

Classic meatloaf is best served warm. Slice it and place on plates with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with a bit of extra ketchup or serve it with gravy for added flavor.

how to store Classic Meatloaf

If you have leftovers, store the meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices of meatloaf for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep.

tips to make Classic Meatloaf

Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
For extra moisture, you can add a little more milk or even some grated carrots to the mix.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own flavor variations.

variation

You can add diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicier meatloaf, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used in place of ground beef. Just keep in mind that it may need a little more seasoning to enhance the flavor.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
Be sure to use binders like eggs and breadcrumbs to help hold the meatloaf together. Mixing just until combined helps too.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it and bake it the next day for a fresh meal.