the-best-meatloaf-recipe
Meatloaf is the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy family meal or a nostalgic taste of home, this timeless dish has a magical way of pleasing everyone. If you’ve been searching for the perfect meatloaf recipe, you’re in the right place. This article will guide you through a flavorful, moist, and easy-to-make meatloaf that will become a staple in your kitchen.
What sets a great meatloaf apart is the balance of juicy ground meat, perfectly seasoned binders, and a sweet-tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully. This recipe uses lean ground beef mixed with aromatics like sautéed onions and garlic, fresh parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, and a blend of seasonings. The glaze combines ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar to create that signature topping everyone loves.
This meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food dish that combines ground beef with sautéed onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, all baked into a moist and tender loaf. It’s topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a flavorful crust. Easy to prepare and satisfying, this meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a hearty family meal. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for leftovers like sandwiches or reheated dinners.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, minced garlic, eggs, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, fresh parsley, salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Gently mix just until combined – overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.
On a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment or foil, shape the meat mixture into an 8-inch long, 4-inch wide, and 3-inch tall loaf. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
While the meatloaf is baking, mix the glaze ingredients (ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder) in a small bowl until combined.
Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf, then return it to the oven for an additional 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain juices and make slicing easier.
Keywords: Meatloaf Recipe
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 280 | – |
| Total Fat | 15 g | 19% |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g | 28% |
| Unsaturated Fat | ~7 g | – |
| Trans Fat | 0 g | – |
| Cholesterol | 104 mg | 35% |
| Sodium | 588 mg | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g | 4% |
| Fiber | 0.6 g | 2% |
| Sugar | 2.6 g | 2% |
| Protein | 24 g | 48% |
*Percent daily values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry-based meatloaf.
Yes, but make sure to cook it to 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat. You might need to adjust moisture by adding extra milk or breadcrumbs.
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, baked asparagus, green beans, or mac and cheese.
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the same quantity to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Avoid overmixing the meat and bake it uncovered initially to form a good crust. Also, rest the meatloaf after baking to keep it juicy.
This meatloaf recipe combines traditional flavors with modern techniques to deliver the juiciest, most flavorful meatloaf you’ll ever make. From the perfectly seasoned meat mixture to the irresistible glaze, it’s a dish that satisfies every time. Whether for a family dinner or a batch to enjoy as leftovers, this recipe earns its place as a timeless American classic. Cooking meatloaf from scratch is simple, rewarding, and absolutely delicious—make it part of your regular rotation today.
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