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The Best Meatloaf Recipe

The Best Meatloaf Recipe


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4.8 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Homestyle Meatloaf combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and classic seasonings for a comforting family dinner. Rich flavors and simple preparation make this dish a satisfying choice you’ll want to add to your weekly menu.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 kg or 2 lbs ground beef (non-lean)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large onion (brown or yellow, finely grated)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley (or 2 tsps dried parsley or basil)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes (or 2 tsps beef powder)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tbsps cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a loaf tin with non-stick spray.
  2. Create a tangy glaze by whisking together tomato ketchup, cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Set aside for later use.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with grated onion, allowing the onion’s moisture to absorb into the breadcrumbs. Add remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together cohesively.
  4. Shape the meat mixture into a smooth, compact loaf, carefully transferring it to the prepared loaf tin. Generously brush the top with half of the prepared glaze.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove and drain any excess fat that has accumulated during cooking.
  6. Apply the remaining glaze over the meatloaf’s surface and return to the oven for an additional 30 minutes of baking.
  7. Once cooked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the meat set and makes slicing easier.
  8. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the tin and slice into generous portions. Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Pat the meat mixture gently when forming the loaf to prevent dense, tough texture and ensure a tender, light meatloaf.
  • Consider using a mixture of ground meats like beef, pork, and veal for enhanced flavor complexity and juiciness.
  • Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for celiac-friendly adaptation.
  • Allow meatloaf to cool slightly before slicing to help it maintain structural integrity and prevent crumbling.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg