Meatloaf recipe
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What Makes Meatloaf Recipe So Special
Is there anything more comforting than walking into a home where a meatloaf is in the oven? That incredible aroma of savory beef, sweet onions, and tangy glaze wafting through the air promises a meal made with love. It’s the taste of my childhood, of coming home after school, and it’s a feeling I’ve carried with me into my own kitchen all these years later.
I’ve learned a secret or two along the way, like what truly makes a moist meatloaf and how to keep it from falling apart on the plate. This recipe is my heart on a platter—a perfect, easy meatloaf that’s both timeless and wonderfully simple to make. It’s the best meatloaf for a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday supper.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
This traditional meatloaf uses simple, honest ingredients that work together in the most beautiful way. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful homemade meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Estimated Prep & Cook Time for Meatloaf Recipe
This easy meatloaf recipe comes together without a fuss. From mixing bowl to dinner table, here’s your timeline:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 60 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus 10 minutes resting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the most flavorful and tender ground beef meatloaf. It’s easier than you think!
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This little step ensures your beautiful meatloaf will slide right out after baking.
2. Combine the Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and chopped onion. I find using my hands here is the best way to get everything evenly distributed without overworking the meat.
3. Whisk the Wet Mix
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. This savory liquid is the secret to a wonderfully moist meatloaf!
4. Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture over the meat mixture. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined; avoid overmixing. This is the key to a tender texture.
5. Shape the Loaf
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly. A nice, tight pack helps our traditional meatloaf hold its classic shape.
6. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze. This sweet and tangy topping is what makes the best meatloaf truly unforgettable.
7. Add the Finishing Touch
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Don’t be shy—cover every last inch!
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This rest time is non-negotiable for a juicy result!
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve played with this homemade meatloaf recipe more times than I can count. Here are a few of my favorite little twists and tips.