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Classic Meatloaf: Discover the Secret to Perfection Recipe

Classic Meatloaf: Discover the Secret to Perfection Recipe

4.9 from 19 reviews

This classic meatloaf recipe is a family favorite, offering the perfect blend of savory flavors and juicy texture. Discover the secret to creating a mouthwatering meatloaf that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

Main Meatloaf Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
  • ¾ cup milk 🥛
  • 2 large eggs 🥚
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp ketchup 🍅
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • ½ tsp paprika

For the Glaze:

  • ½ cup ketchup 🍅
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Make the Base: In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk; let sit 2–3 minutes to soften. Add eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Stir well.
  3. Add the Beef: Gently fold in ground beef until just combined (don’t overmix or it’ll be tough).
  4. Shape the Loaf: Form mixture into a loaf shape in your pan or on the baking sheet.
  5. Glaze & Bake: Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half over the loaf. Bake 45 minutes, spread remaining glaze on top, and bake another 15–20 minutes, until cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 70°C).
  6. Rest & Slice: Let rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Notes

  • Use a mix of beef + pork for extra flavor.
  • Add finely grated carrot or zucchini for moisture (great for picky eaters).
  • Leftovers make the BEST meatloaf sandwiches the next day. 🥪

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic, comfort food, dinner, ground beef