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An easy family meatloaf dinner, ready to be served on a kitchen counter.

Classic Easy Family Meatloaf Dinner

This classic meatloaf recipe is a family favorite, combining ground beef with savory seasonings and a tangy glaze for a comforting and delicious meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • oven
  • loaf pan or baking sheet
  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • small bowl
  • meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf

  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or fresh
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced (sautéed)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (sautéed)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan or baking sheet.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano.
  • Stir in the breadcrumbs, sautéed onion, and minced garlic; allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes.
  • Add the ground beef and gently mix all ingredients until just combined, avoiding overmixing to prevent a tough meatloaf.
  • Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a compact loaf.

Baking

  • Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze, then spread half of it over the meatloaf.
  • Bake for 45 minutes, then apply the remaining glaze and bake for another 20-30 minutes until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).
  • Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For best results, use a quality ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. Letting the meatloaf rest is crucial for a moist and flavorful outcome.