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Classic Homestyle Meatloaf

A close-up of a moist and tender classic meatloaf, topped with ketchup glaze, with a slice cut and ready to serve.

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A timeless and comforting meatloaf recipe, perfect for a family dinner. This moist and flavorful meatloaf features a tangy ketchup glaze and is a staple of American home cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup, for glaze
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar, for glaze
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, for glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze.
  5. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes.
  7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  8. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For an extra moist meatloaf, you can add 1/4 cup of finely grated carrot or zucchini to the meat mixture.
  • If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed saltine crackers or even stale bread torn into small pieces.
  • The glaze ingredients can be adjusted to your preference. Add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
  • Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

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