Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

America’s Most Beloved Classic Meatloaf

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Lidia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A classic American meatloaf recipe made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a sweet and tangy glaze. Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting dinner.


Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • For the glaze:
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit until soaked and soft.
  3. Add ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet (approx. 8×4 inches).
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze.
  6. Spoon half the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes, then spread remaining glaze on top.
  8. Return to oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for the best moisture and flavor balance.
  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid toughness.
  • Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day.
  • Try using BBQ sauce instead of ketchup in the glaze for a smokier flavor.
  • You can mix beef and pork for added richness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of loaf)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg