Description
This Classic Meatloaf is moist, tender, and packed with rich flavors. Topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, it's the perfect comfort food for family dinners. Simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ lbs lean ground beef ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft (about 5 minutes). Let cool slightly.
- Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, ketchup, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and the sautéed onion and garlic. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer mixture to a loaf pan, pressing gently to form an even shape.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40 minutes.
- Make the Glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
- Glaze and Finish Baking: After 40 minutes, spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Meat Variations: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Extra Flavor: Add finely chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for texture and sweetness.
- Breadcrumb Substitute: Use rolled oats instead of breadcrumbs for a heartier texture.
- No Loaf Pan? Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
