A Classic Baked Meatloaf is a comforting, hearty dish that’s simple to prepare and always delicious. Here’s a traditional recipe for a juicy and flavorful meatloaf that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (or additional beef if preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, or shape it into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure it’s about 8-9 inches long and evenly shaped for even cooking.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir until the glaze is smooth and well mixed.
5. Glaze the Meatloaf:
- Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. This will help form a delicious, sticky crust as it bakes.
6. Bake:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour.
- After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven for the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Check for Doneness:
- The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), or when it is no longer pink in the center.
8. Rest Before Serving:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender and juicy.
9. Serve:
- Slice the meatloaf and serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite sides.
Tips:
- For a Moist Meatloaf: Add a small amount of grated cheese or finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the mixture for extra moisture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before, shape it, and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it the next day, adding extra time if needed since the meatloaf will be cold.
- Freezing: You can freeze the meatloaf after shaping it (before baking). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
This classic baked meatloaf is perfect for a cozy family dinner and leftovers can be used for sandwiches or served with other meals!
