The Perfect Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Introduction
The classic meatloaf is a comforting and hearty dish that never goes out of style. This recipe combines ground beef with aromatic herbs and a tangy glaze for a flavorful and moist result. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it’s easy to make and always satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1/2 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup goat milk (or dairy milk)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/3 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper that drapes over the sides for easy removal. Set the pan aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, 2 tablespoons ketchup, salt, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Step 3: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Pour this glaze over the meatloaf and spread it evenly with a spoon.
- Step 5: Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 55 minutes to 1 hour. Let it rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to settle.
- Step 6: Use the parchment paper to lift the meatloaf from the pan. Slice into servings and serve warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for a few minutes before mixing into the meat.
- Try substituting half the ground beef with ground pork or turkey to vary the flavor.
- Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the topping mixture.
Storage
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make meatloaf without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use a commercial egg replacer to help bind the meat mixture.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s safely cooked and perfectly juicy.
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The Perfect Classic Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This classic meatloaf recipe combines lean ground beef with flavorful herbs and a tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Baked to perfection in the oven, this hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, delivering a moist and tender texture with a savory, slightly sweet topping.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1/2 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup goat milk (or dairy milk)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Glaze
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to drape over the sides for easy removal of the meatloaf later. Set the pan aside.
- Mix meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, egg, chopped onion, seasoned panko breadcrumbs, goat milk (or dairy milk), ketchup, kosher salt, dried parsley, garlic powder, dried oregano, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. Using your hands (wearing disposable gloves if preferred), gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it evenly to fill the pan uniformly.
- Prepare glaze: In a small bowl, blend together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
- Apply glaze: Pour the prepared glaze over the top of the meatloaf evenly, then use a spoon to spread the glaze across the surface.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
- Rest and serve: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper handles to carefully lift the meatloaf out of the pan, then slice into portions. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy.
Notes
- To avoid a tough meatloaf, mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat.
- Using parchment paper helps with easy removal and clean-up.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist slice.
- Feel free to substitute goat milk with any dairy or plant-based milk if desired.
- Check meatloaf doneness with a meat thermometer for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes to 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: classic meatloaf, baked meatloaf, easy meatloaf recipe, ground beef meatloaf, meatloaf glaze
