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A traditional family meatloaf, perfectly baked and sliced on a serving platter.

Classic Traditional Family Meatloaf

A comforting and easy-to-make meatloaf recipe, perfect for a family dinner. This classic dish features a savory blend of ground beef, aromatics, and a tangy-sweet glaze.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Foil or Parchment Paper
  • Small Pan
  • Large Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Mixture

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko or plain
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Aromatics

  • Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a small pan until softened, about 5 minutes, then let cool slightly.

Meatloaf Mixture

  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and Worcestershire sauce, then stir in breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper and let sit for 5 minutes.
  • Add the ground beef and cooled aromatics to the bowl and gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a 9x5-inch loaf with even thickness.

Glaze & Baking

  • Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth to make the glaze.
  • Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for 45 minutes.
  • Remove from oven, spread the remaining glaze, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Resting

  • Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For best results, do not overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can lead to a tough texture. You can also add finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots for added flavor and nutrients. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.