Description
This easy meatloaf recipe combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a flavorful glaze for a classic comfort food dish that’s simple to prepare. With garlic, thyme, and a tangy ketchup glaze, it’s perfect for a family dinner and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Glaze:
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready to cook the meatloaf evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet for a more rustic appearance.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients: 2 tablespoons ketchup, brown sugar, and optional Dijon mustard. This glaze will add a sweet and tangy finish to your meatloaf.
- Apply Glaze: Evenly spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf to create a flavorful crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This step helps retain juices and makes for easier slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
- You can substitute ground beef with a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.
- If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as a binder.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and ensure food safety.
- Leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
