Description
Hearty classic meatloaf blends ground beef, herbs, and tangy glaze into a comforting dinner centerpiece. Family-friendly flavors meld perfectly, promising a satisfying meal that will warm hearts and please even picky eaters.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) ground beef (80/20 blend)
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk (118 milliliters)
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking surface with parchment paper or by lightly greasing a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Gently sauté diced onions and minced garlic in a skillet until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic flavors.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, whisked eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, selected herbs, and the cooled sautéed aromatics.
- Using clean hands, tenderly blend the ingredients, being careful not to overwork the meat to maintain a tender texture.
- Carefully shape the meat mixture into a cohesive loaf, ensuring an even surface and compact formation on the baking sheet or within the loaf pan.
- Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to create a tangy, caramelizing glaze.
- Generously brush half of the glaze over the formed meatloaf, creating an initial flavor layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, then apply the remaining glaze for additional depth and caramelization.
- Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches a safe 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist, flavorful result.
- Slice and serve with complementary side dishes, enjoying the rich, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based alternatives for healthier, diet-friendly options that maintain delicious flavor profiles.
- Customize the glaze by adding smoky chipotle sauce or honey for unique taste variations that elevate the classic meatloaf recipe.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish celiac-friendly without compromising texture or binding properties of the mixture.
- Prevent dry meatloaf by avoiding overmixing and checking internal temperature precisely with a meat thermometer for perfect moisture retention.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg