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The Best Meatloaf Recipe


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This classic meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and topped with a delicious homemade glaze. It’s the perfect comfort food for any family dinner!


Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Tbsp ketchup
  • 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free)
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Meatloaf Sauce Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 1/2 tsp white vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

  • Prep: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Sautee Onions: Heat 1 tsp of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and let it cool.
  • Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, add all the meatloaf ingredients (ground beef, eggs, garlic, ketchup, parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper). Mix until well combined.
  • Shape Meatloaf and Bake: Place the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.
  • Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients (ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder) and stir to combine.
  • Add the Glaze: After 40 minutes of baking, spread the sauce over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  • Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Variations: You can replace half of the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version.
  • Do Not Overmix: Mix until the meat mixture is just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
  • To Bake in a Loaf Pan: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Gently press the meat mixture into the pan and bake at 375°F for the same amount of time.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour (40 minutes initial bake, 20 minutes with glaze)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: meatloaf, beef meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner, homemade meatloaf