Classic Fast Prep Meatloaf Recipe
This classic meatloaf recipe is designed for quick preparation without sacrificing flavor. Featuring a simple mix of ground beef, seasoned breadcrumbs, and a tangy ketchup glaze, it's a family-friendly meal that comes together easily.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper or Foil
- Loaf Pan
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (or a mix of beef, pork, and/or veal)
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk (any kind)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion (or 1 tbsp onion powder)
- 2 garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Stir in the seasoned breadcrumbs until moistened, then add the ground meat.
- Gently mix everything by hand until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a 9x5 inch rectangular loaf, or press it into a loaf pan.
Baking
- In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth to make the glaze.
- Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure tenderness and moisture.
Notes
For best results, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender. Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial for juicy slices.