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The Best Meatloaf Recipe


  • Author: Catalina
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

This classic meatloaf recipe delivers a savory and juicy meal that is perfect for family dinners. With a flavorful homemade glaze and tender texture, it’s sure to become your go-to comfort food.


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

Step 1: Prep

  1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

  1. Set a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp of olive oil and chopped onion, and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Transfer the onions to a plate and let them cool.

Step 3: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, add all of the meatloaf ingredients (ground beef, eggs, garlic, ketchup, parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper).
  2. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

  1. Add the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall.
  2. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Meatloaf Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients (ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder).
  2. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Glaze the Meatloaf

  1. After 40 minutes, spread the prepared sauce over the meatloaf.
  2. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

  1. Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Variations: You can replace half the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor.
  • Do Not Overmix: Only mix until the ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
  • To Bake in a Loaf Pan: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Gently press the meat mixture into the pan and bake at 375°F, following the same instructions.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: classic meatloaf, homemade meatloaf, meatloaf with glaze, easy meatloaf, dinner recipe