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Meatloaf Recipe

This classic meatloaf is tender, juicy, and full of flavor, topped with a tangy ketchup-brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s a foolproof recipe that brings back cozy, family-dinner memories and makes the best leftovers for sandwiches.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
resting before slicing 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is best
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian style
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion grated or very finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Optional mix-ins: 1/2 cup shredded carrots 1/2 cup finely diced bell peppers, or 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb. This keeps the meatloaf tender.
  3. Add the eggs, grated onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  4. Add the ground beef. Using clean hands, gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as that can make it tough.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared pan (or press into the loaf pan).
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Spread half the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 40 minutes. Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze on top, and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist.