Classic Simple Meatloaf for Beginners
This classic simple meatloaf recipe is perfect for beginners, offering a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal fuss. Made with ground beef and a savory glaze, it's a family-friendly dish that's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Equipment
- Oven
- Large bowl
- Baking sheet
- Whisk
- Instant-read thermometer
- Small bowl
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 80/20 lean is ideal
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup for the loaf mixture
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Add breadcrumbs and stir gently to combine, allowing them to soak up the liquid.
- Add the ground beef and gently mix all ingredients with clean hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a compact loaf, roughly 9x5 inches and 2 inches high.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
Cooking
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) with an instant-read thermometer.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice and serve your classic simple meatloaf.
Notes
Ensure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender and moist. Resting the meatloaf after baking is crucial for a juicy result.