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Classic Homemade Meatloaf

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A cozy, no-fuss classic meatloaf recipe that is moist, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or a comforting welcome-back meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • ½ cup milk (whole or dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes until soft.
  3. Add the eggs to the soaked breadcrumbs and whisk lightly to combine.
  4. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the bowl.
  5. Season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs if using. Mix gently.
  6. Add the ground beef and fold it into the mixture gently without overmixing.
  7. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan or shape a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Pat down gently.
  8. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to prepare the glaze.
  9. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  10. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  12. Slice and serve warm, ideally with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the meatloaf tender. Soaking breadcrumbs in milk is key for moisture. Tent with foil if the top browns too fast. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for best texture. Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, homemade meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, ground beef recipe

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/classic-homemade-meatloaf-recipe-easy-cozy-moms-welcome-back-meal/