Here’s a classic, hearty meatloaf recipe that’s moist, flavorful, and simple to make:
Ingredients (serves 6–8)
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean for juiciness)
- ½ lb ground pork (optional, adds flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Glaze
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently—overmixing makes it dense.
- Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan (or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet).
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—it helps keep it juicy.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Don’t overmix: Keeps it tender.
- Add veggies: Grated carrot or zucchini adds moisture and nutrition.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf the night before, cover, and bake the next day.
If you want, I can also give you a super-moist version with a secret ingredient trick that makes meatloaf almost melt-in-your-mouth. Do you want me to do that?
