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The Best Meatloaf Recipe


  • Author: Norah
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with onions, breadcrumbs, and a savory homemade glaze. It’s perfectly baked with a delicious ketchup-based sauce that enhances its flavor. A comforting and classic dish that’s perfect for family dinners!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Tbsp ketchup
  • 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

For the Meatloaf Sauce:

  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 1/2 tsp white vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

  • Prep: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and golden. Transfer to a plate to cool.

  • Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, garlic, ketchup, parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, but avoid overmixing.

  • Shape Meatloaf and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf (about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall). Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.

  • Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients (ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder) and stir until smooth.

  • Add the Glaze: After 40 minutes, spread the sauce evenly over the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  • Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Variations: You can replace half of the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version.
  • Do Not Overmix: Mix until the ingredients are just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • To Bake in a Loaf Pan: Line the loaf pan with parchment paper. Gently press the meat mixture into the pan and bake at 375°F (190°C) for the same cooking times.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes (40 minutes initial bake + 20 minutes after adding sauce)
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Meatloaf, homemade, beef, classic, easy dinner, savory, comfort food