This easy meatloaf recipe is a timeless classic that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite side for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 cup (70g) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, 1/4 cup of ketchup, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape, pressing it gently to fill the pan evenly.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
5. Glaze and Bake:
- Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, using a spoon or a pastry brush to coat it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is caramelized and slightly crispy.
- If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when the meatloaf is done.
6. Rest and Serve:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the easy meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic comfort food meal.
- Leftover meatloaf is great for sandwiches or chopped up and added to pasta sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- To add extra flavor, you can sauté the chopped onion and garlic in a little olive oil before adding them to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for a few minutes before mixing them into the meat.
- Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like parsley or basil, or spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Delicious: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful meatloaf that’s sure to please the whole family.
- Comforting and Satisfying: There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of meatloaf to make you feel cozy and content.
- Versatile: This recipe is easily customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
This easy meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and delicious flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this meatloaf is guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade meatloaf straight from your oven!