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The Best Meatloaf Recipe


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This delicious, flavorful meatloaf is made with a blend of lean ground beef, fresh herbs, and a tangy homemade glaze. It’s a perfect family meal that’s moist, tender, and packed with savory goodness. Paired with a simple sauce for extra flavor, this meatloaf will surely become a favorite.


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
  • ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper

For the Meatloaf Sauce:

  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 1 ½ tsp white vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder

Instructions

  • Prep:

    • Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Sauté the Onions:

    • Set a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp olive oil and the chopped onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. Transfer to a plate and let it cool.
  • Make the Meatloaf Mixture:

    • In a large bowl, add all the meatloaf ingredients, including the sautéed onions, and mix until well combined.
  • Shape the Meatloaf and Bake:

    • Place the meat mixture on the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
  • Make the Sauce:

    • In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients (ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder). Stir to combine.
  • Add the Glaze:

    • After 40 minutes, spread the sauce over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Variations: You can replace half the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor.
  • Do Not Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture—just combine it until everything is mixed.
  • To Bake in a Loaf Pan: Line the loaf pan with parchment paper. Gently press the meat mixture into the pan and bake following the same instructions, but increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American