Description
This Easy Meatloaf Recipe is a classic comfort food made with ground beef, flavorful seasonings, and a tangy ketchup glaze. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a hearty family dinner with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that yield a tender, juicy meatloaf.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 cup Plain breadcrumbs
- 2 pounds Ground beef (80/20 preferred for juiciness)
- 1 medium Onion, grated
- 1 large Egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
Meatloaf Glaze
- ¼ cup Ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated for a uniform texture.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape about 2 inches thick. Place the meatloaf on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch drippings and ensure easy cleanup.
- Bake Initial Phase: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to start cooking the interior.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl to make the tangy glaze.
- Apply the Glaze: After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the glaze over the top for added flavor and moisture.
- Bake Final Phase: Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). If needed, bake an extra 5 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Using ground beef with 80/20 fat content ensures a juicy meatloaf.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing improves texture and reduces juices running out.
- Foil lining on the baking sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- The glaze adds a sweet and tangy contrast that enhances flavor.
- Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the safe cooking temperature of 165°F.
