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A serving of classic meatloaf on a white plate with gravy

Classic Meatloaf Plate

A classic comfort food, this meatloaf is made with ground beef, a savory blend of seasonings, and topped with a tangy, sweet glaze.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • baking sheet
  • loaf pan
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs plain or Panko
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley optional
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and ground beef.
  • Add the egg, breadcrumbs, milk, parsley (if using), salt, pepper, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
  • Gently mix all ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to prevent a dense meatloaf.

Baking

  • Form the mixture into a free-form loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet or press into a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes.
  • While baking, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and dry mustard for the glaze.
  • After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf, spread the glaze over it, and return to the oven to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches 160°F (71°C).

Serving

  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and ensure tenderness.

Notes

For best results, use an 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef blend for flavor and moisture. Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender.