Introduction:
Classic Baked Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying. Made with ground meat (usually beef, but other options like turkey or pork work well), breadcrumbs, and a mix of savory seasonings, it’s the perfect dish to feed a crowd or for a cozy family dinner. Topped with a tangy ketchup glaze, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean is ideal for flavor and moisture)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
3/4 cup breadcrumbs (regular or Panko)
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
2 tablespoons brown sugar (for the glaze)
1 tablespoon mustard (for the glaze)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan if you prefer.
Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
Shape the meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape, about 9 inches long and 5 inches wide, and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Alternatively, you can press the mixture into a loaf pan.
Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
Apply the glaze: Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, covering it completely.
Bake the meatloaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest before serving: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures a juicy meatloaf.
Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or your favorite side dishes.
Description:
This Classic Baked Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food: savory, tender, and juicy. The combination of ground beef, herbs, and seasonings creates a flavorful meat mixture, while the ketchup glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf is a classic that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor.
Tips:
Don’t overmix the meat: Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf. Mix just until everything is combined.
Moisture: If your meatloaf seems dry, you can add a little more milk or a bit of beef broth to the mixture for added moisture.
For a crispier top: If you prefer a crispier crust on top, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Rest the meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This helps it hold together better when slicing.
Variations:
Meat variation: You can use ground turkey, pork, or even a combination of ground beef and ground pork for different flavors.
Cheese: Add some shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the meat mixture for a cheesy surprise inside.
Vegetable mix-ins: For added flavor and nutrition, finely chop carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms and mix them into the meat.
Spicy meatloaf: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Corrections:
Check for doneness: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. If it’s not at 160°F, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes and check again.
Moisture content: If your meatloaf is too dry or crumbly, increase the amount of milk or try adding a bit of grated cheese or vegetable puree to retain moisture.
Enjoy!
Classic Baked Meatloaf is an incredibly versatile and comforting dish that’s sure to please any crowd. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the warmth and flavor in every bite. Perfect for dinner tonight or for leftovers the next day!