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How to Make the Best Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • Ground beef: 1 1/2 lbs (lean, about 85% is ideal)
  • Bread crumbs: 1 cup (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • Milk: 1/2 cup
  • Egg: 1 large, beaten
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons
  • Ketchup: 1/4 cup
  • Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and pepper: to taste

For the Glaze:

  • Ketchup: 1/2 cup
  • Brown sugar: 1/4 cup, packed
  • Mustard (yellow or Dijon): 2 tablespoons
  • Vinegar (apple cider or white): 1 tablespoon

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it, or use a loaf pan.
  2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, soak the bread crumbs in milk for a few minutes. Add the beaten egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
    • Add the ground beef to the mixture. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf:
    • Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf, or press the mixture into the loaf pan.
  4. Prepare the Glaze:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar until smooth.
  5. Bake:
    • Spread about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Baste occasionally with the remaining glaze during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  6. Rest and Serve:
    • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
    • Serve slices of meatloaf with the remaining glaze on the side or drizzled on top.
  • Author: Maria