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A full serving of retro meatloaf dinner with gravy and mashed potatoes

Classic Retro Meatloaf Dinner Recipe

This classic retro meatloaf is a comforting dinner that's easy to make. Featuring a savory ground beef base with aromatic vegetables and a sweet and tangy glaze, it's a family-friendly meal perfect for any night of the week.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 6 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • medium skillet
  • large mixing bowl
  • baking dish or baking sheet
  • small bowl
  • meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf

  • 1 ½ lbs Ground Beef 80/20 blend recommended
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Panko
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions
 

1

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet, then cook the chopped onion until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, then let it cool slightly.

2

  • Whisk together milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

3

  • Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture, breadcrumbs, and ground beef to the wet ingredients.

4

  • Gently mix all ingredients with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

5

  • Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper, then shape the meat mixture into a 9x5 inch loaf.

6

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

7

  • Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl for the glaze.

8

  • Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for 45 minutes.

9

  • Remove the meatloaf, spread the remaining glaze, and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

10

  • Rest the meatloaf for 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure it is moist and tender.

Notes

For best results, use a lean ground beef blend to avoid excessive grease. Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete meal.