Introduction: Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this classic dish is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry group. Paired with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad, meatloaf makes a delicious and filling meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the onion and garlic)
Instructions:
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Sauté onion and garlic: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape and bake: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf if you’re not using a pan. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for added flavor and moisture.
Bake: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you prefer a slightly crispy top, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice and serve.
Description:
This meatloaf is the perfect balance of juicy, tender ground beef and savory seasoning. The onion and garlic add depth of flavor, while the breadcrumbs help keep the loaf moist. Topped with a tangy layer of ketchup, it’s everything you want in a classic meatloaf. This dish is sure to remind you of home-cooked family dinners and will be a hit at your table.
Tips:
Use lean beef: For a leaner meatloaf, use 90% lean ground beef or a blend of beef and ground turkey.
Flavor adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Moisture check: If your meatloaf mixture seems dry, add a bit more milk or an extra egg to help bind it.
Extra veggies: You can sneak in finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and moisture.
Variations:
Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add cubes of mozzarella or cheddar in the center of the meatloaf before baking for a cheesy surprise inside.
BBQ Meatloaf: Replace the ketchup topping with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist on this classic dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Italian Meatloaf: Add Italian seasoning, fresh basil, and a layer of marinara sauce on top for an Italian-inspired version.
Corrections:
Moisture: If your meatloaf comes out too dry, you might have overcooked it. To prevent this, use an instant-read thermometer and check the internal temperature when it reaches 160°F (71°C).
Binding: If the mixture is too loose to form a loaf, add a few more breadcrumbs or a bit of oat flour to help bind it together.
Enjoy:
This classic meatloaf is a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and delicious every time. Whether you enjoy it with mashed potatoes, a side of veggies, or just on its own, it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy every bite!