Ah, meatloaf 🍖🍽️—classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for dinner leftovers! Here’s a full, foolproof recipe.
Classic Meatloaf
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs ground beef (can mix 50/50 with pork or veal for juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Topping (optional but classic):
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard
Instructions
1. Prep the oven and pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix the meatloaf
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except topping.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently—don’t overmix or meatloaf gets tough.
3. Shape
- Form mixture into a loaf shape and place in pan.
- Spread ketchup mixture evenly on top if using.
4. Bake
- Bake 55–65 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Optional: broil 2–3 minutes at the end for a caramelized topping.
5. Rest & Serve
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips & Variations
- Extra moist: Add grated carrot or zucchini.
- Cheesy twist: Fold in shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
- Glaze variations: BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or tomato jam.
- Make ahead: Can be formed and refrigerated overnight, then baked.
If you want, I can also give you a slow cooker meatloaf version that stays juicy and doesn’t need oven time.
Do you want me to do that?
