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The Best Meatloaf You'll Ever Make - Image 2

The Best Meatloaf You'll Ever Make

This meatloaf recipe combines ground beef, savory seasonings, and a delicious glaze for a moist, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and sure to please, it's the ultimate comfort food.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or seasoned, depending on preference
  • 1 cup milk whole milk for best results
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or loaf pan
  • Parchment paper or cooking spray
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small bowl for glaze
  • Pastry brush for applying glaze

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  3. Add the onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
  5. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
  6. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
  7. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the glaze evenly over the top and sides.
  8. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a firmer texture, you can use leaner ground beef, but the flavor may be less rich.
• Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent a dense, tough meatloaf.
• Serve with mashed potatoes and a green vegetable for a classic, comforting meal.
Food Safety:
• Always cook ground beef to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days.