Meatloaf
A classic American comfort food! This juicy, flavorful meatloaf is made with ground beef and a tangy ketchup glaze. It's easy to make and perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
For 6 servings
7 steps. 65 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven and prepare pan
- a.Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil.
- 2
Sauté the aromatics
- a.Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- 3
Prepare the meat mixture
- a.In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooled onion and garlic mixture, milk, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of the ketchup, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- 4
Form the loaf
- a.Gently press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, or shape it into a free-form loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
- 5
Make the glaze
- a.In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 3/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- 6
Bake in two stages
- a.Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 40 minutes. Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return to the oven. Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- 7
Rest and serve
- a.Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist slice. Carefully lift from the pan, slice, and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a juicier meatloaf, use a mix of ground meats like beef, pork, and veal.
- 2Do not overmix the meat mixture. Combine the ingredients gently until they just come together to keep the texture tender.
- 3Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked without drying it out.
- 4Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture deepens their flavor and adds sweetness.
- 5For a crustier exterior, shape the meatloaf into a free-form loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet instead of using a loaf pan.
- 6Letting the meatloaf rest is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist slice.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Meatloaf
Add 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños or 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheesy MeatloafCheesy Meatloaf
Mix 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the meat mixture before shaping the loaf.
BBQ MeatloafBBQ Meatloaf
Replace the ketchup-based glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
Turkey MeatloafTurkey Meatloaf
For a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey. You may want to add a little extra olive oil to maintain moisture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Ground beef and eggs provide high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Excellent Source of Iron
Beef is a prime source of heme iron, a type that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, helping to prevent fatigue and anemia.
Provides Key B Vitamins
This dish is rich in B vitamins, particularly B12, which is vital for nerve function and the formation of DNA and red blood cells. It also contains niacin (B3) and pyridoxine (B6), which support energy metabolism.
Frequently asked questions
A single slice of this meatloaf (1/6th of the recipe) contains approximately 450-480 calories, depending on the exact fat content of the ground beef used.