Here’s a classic, juicy meatloaf recipe—simple, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal:
🍖 Classic Meatloaf
🧾 Ingredients
- 500–700 g (1–1.5 lb) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or soaked bread)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or mixed herbs
For the glaze:
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)
🔪 Instructions
1. Preheat oven
Set to 180°C (350°F).
2. Mix ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs.
Mix gently—don’t overwork it or the meatloaf will be dense.
3. Shape
Form into a loaf and place in a baking dish or loaf pan.
4. Add glaze
Mix glaze ingredients and spread over the top.
5. Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temp ~70°C / 160°F).
6. Rest
Let it rest 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy.
🍽️ Tips for Best Results
- Use a mix of beef + a little fat (like 80/20) for moisture
- Add grated carrot or zucchini for extra softness
- If it feels dry, add a splash more milk
- Avoid pressing it too tightly when shaping
🥔 Serving Ideas
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed vegetables
- Rice or buttered noodles
🔥 Variations
- Cheesy meatloaf: Add shredded cheese in the center
- Spicy version: Mix in chili flakes or green chilies
- BBQ glaze: Replace ketchup glaze with BBQ sauce
If you want, I can give you a desi-style meatloaf (with Pakistani spices) or a slow cooker / air fryer version.
