Description
Hearty classic meatloaf with a glossy glaze beckons comfort food enthusiasts with its rich, savory profile. Generations of home cooks have cherished this timeless dish that promises warmth and satisfaction on your dinner plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 pounds (900 grams) ground beef (80% lean)
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ⅓ cup milk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Glaze Ingredients:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for seamless cleanup.
- Create a moisture-rich base by combining breadcrumbs and milk, allowing the mixture to absorb liquid for enhanced texture.
- Incorporate ground beef with aromatic ingredients like onion, garlic, herbs, and seasonings. Gently fold the components together, maintaining a light touch to preserve the meatloaf’s tenderness.
- Mold the meat mixture into a symmetrical loaf shape, roughly 8 inches long, ensuring even cooking and aesthetic presentation.
- Craft a tangy glaze by whisking ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well-integrated.
- Generously coat the meatloaf’s exterior with half the prepared glaze, creating a flavorful initial layer.
- Transfer the glazed meatloaf to the preheated oven and roast for 45 minutes, allowing the meat to develop rich, caramelized edges.
- Reapply the remaining glaze, intensifying the flavor profile and creating a glossy exterior.
- Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, guaranteeing safe and succulent results.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist, cohesive texture.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve alongside complementary side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or crisp green beans.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef with around 15% fat for a moist and flavorful meatloaf without being too greasy.
- Gently mix ingredients to prevent a tough, dense texture that happens when meat is overworked.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs or day-old bread instead of store-bought for better moisture absorption and richer flavor.
- Test internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety and prevent overcooking, which dries out the meat.
- Customize the glaze by adding a splash of hot sauce or replacing ketchup with tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Make the recipe gluten-free by substituting breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like rolled oats or almond flour.
- Prepare extra glaze on the side for serving, as diners often enjoy additional sauce with their meatloaf.
- Freeze individual slices for quick weeknight meals, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg