Description
Hearty Classic Meatloaf emerges as a comforting culinary masterpiece from American home kitchens. Rich ground beef blends with simple ingredients, creating a satisfying meal that connects generations through delicious tradition.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
Binding Ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350F (175C), ensuring a consistent temperature for optimal cooking.
- In a comprehensive mixing bowl, thoroughly blend ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Carefully form the meat mixture into a compact, symmetrical loaf shape, maintaining uniform thickness for consistent cooking.
- Transfer the raw meatloaf onto a lightly greased baking sheet or traditional loaf pan, positioning it centrally for even heat circulation.
- Create a glossy glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth and well-integrated.
- Generously brush the prepared glaze over the entire surface of the meatloaf, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Slide the prepared meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, monitoring internal temperature until it precisely reaches 160F (70C).
- Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest undisturbed for 10 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist, tender texture.
- Slice into uniform portions and serve immediately while warm, presenting a delectable main course.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce excess fat while maintaining juicy texture.
- Sauté onions and garlic beforehand to enhance their flavor and soften their sharp edges.
- Consider adding grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra moisture and nutritional boost.
- For gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 335 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg