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Classic Meatloaf Recipe

This classic meatloaf is moist, tender, and full of flavor with a perfectly caramelized ketchup glaze. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, it's a timeless comfort food that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and green beans.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:55 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • 9x5 inch loaf pan (or baking sheet)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula or spoon
  • Aluminum foil (optional)
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 or 85/15
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley optional
  • For the Glaze:
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard optional
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Make the Meatloaf Mixture:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using).
  • Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix.
  • Shape and Place in Pan:
  • Transfer the meat mixture to a greased loaf pan and press it in evenly.
  • Alternatively, shape it into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet for crispier edges.
  • Prepare the Glaze:
  • In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Spread half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
  • Bake:
  • Bake for 40 minutes.
  • Remove from oven and spread the remaining glaze on top.
  • Return to oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Rest and Slice:
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist.
  • Serve:
  • Slice and serve with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted veggies, or mac and cheese.
Servings: 8 slices