easy meatloaf recipe
Try this easy meatloaf recipe for a quick, flavorful dinner. Perfect for busy nights, it’s simple to make and packed with delicious comfort food goodness!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb 450g ground beef – Choose a beef with around 80% lean meat for the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – This helps bind everything together and adds texture. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs based on your preference.
- 1 egg – This binds the ingredients together and keeps your meatloaf moist.
- 1/4 cup milk – Milk adds moisture and helps keep the meatloaf from drying out.
- 1/2 cup ketchup – For a juicy tangy flavor, ketchup is both in the mixture and as a topping. It provides the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- 1 small onion finely chopped – Adds savory depth and sweetness to the meatloaf. If you’re not a fan of onion, try using onion powder as a substitute.
- 2 cloves garlic minced – Garlic brings a fragrant, savory punch that enhances the flavor profile of your meatloaf.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – A key ingredient for savory umami flavor that makes this meatloaf truly stand out.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – Adds a mix of herbs like oregano basil, and thyme, giving your meatloaf extra flavor. You can also swap with dried parsley or herbs of your choice.
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup – The base of your glaze; it caramelizes as it bakes and creates a glossy flavorful topping.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the glaze become thick and delicious.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional – Gives the glaze a tangy kick that complements the sweetness.
- Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go will make the process smoother and quicker. Keep in mind that the beauty of this easy meatloaf recipe lies in its versatility—you can experiment with different herbs spices, or even vegetables to make it your own!
Instructions
- Now that you've gathered your ingredients, let's dive into the steps to create a delicious easy meatloaf recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. The process is quick, simple, and guarantees a juicy, flavorful meatloaf. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat Your Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly and locks in all those savory flavors.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it by hand into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet. The loaf should be about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide, ensuring it cooks evenly.
Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using). Once smooth, spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf—it should read 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut a small slit into the center and make sure the juices run clear.
Let it Rest:
- Once your meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the meatloaf into thick, juicy pieces and serve with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the hearty, savory flavor in every bite!
Pro Tip:
- If you want to elevate your meatloaf, you can add grated cheese into the meat mixture for a cheesy twist. Just fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy, melty surprise.
- With this easy meatloaf recipe, you’re sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors, and feel free to make it your own by adjusting the seasonings to taste!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g