Description
Classic meatloaf delights home cooks with its hearty blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings. Tangy ketchup glaze crowns this comforting dish, inviting families to savor each delicious bite together.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) ground beef
Binding Ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
Instructions
- Prepare a loaf pan and set the oven to 375F (190C) for optimal cooking temperature.
- Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, ensuring thorough and even blending.
- Gently transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, carefully shaping it into a uniform loaf without compressing the meat too tightly.
- Craft the glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a separate small bowl until smooth and well-integrated.
- Apply the first layer of glaze generously across the surface of the raw meatloaf, covering it completely for maximum flavor infusion.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the meat to cook and develop initial caramelization.
- Remove the meatloaf and spread the remaining glaze evenly over the top, creating a second layer of sweet and tangy coating.
- Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160F (71C), ensuring the meat is fully cooked.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps stabilize the juices and makes slicing easier.
- Slice and serve the meatloaf warm, enjoying the rich flavor and glossy glaze.
Notes
- Customize the meatloaf by swapping ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to boost nutrition and create extra moisture in the meatloaf.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Enhance flavor by incorporating herbs like fresh parsley, thyme, or dried Italian seasoning into the meat mixture for more depth and complexity.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 437
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 510 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 142 mg