Description
This classic meat loaf recipe combines lean ground beef with crushed saltines, eggs, and aromatic seasonings, topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. Baked to perfection in the oven, it offers a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners, with a crispy exterior and moist interior.
Ingredients
Meat Loaf Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup 2% milk
- 2/3 cup finely crushed saltines
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
- Dash of black pepper
- 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)
Meat Loaf Sauce
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the meat loaf mixture: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2% milk, crushed saltines, chopped onion, salt, rubbed sage, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine beef with mixture: Break up the ground beef into small chunks and add it gradually to the egg mixture, gently massaging it in until thoroughly blended without overmixing to maintain tenderness.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until the sugar dissolves completely. Set aside 1/2 cup for serving.
- Shape and top the meat loaf: Transfer the beef mixture to an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Form into an 8×4-inch loaf shape. Spread the remaining sauce evenly over the top of the loaf using a spatula or spoon.
- Bake the meat loaf: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 65 minutes, or until an internal thermometer inserted in the center reads 160°F.
- Rest and serve: Remove the meat loaf from the oven and let it rest at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Serve slices with the reserved sauce for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use a baking sheet or shallow pan for baking to get a crispy crust; loaf pans may trap moisture and cause the loaf to steam.
- Resting the meat loaf after baking is crucial to keep it moist and prevent it from falling apart when sliced.
- Use a serrated knife for clean slicing without squishing the loaf.
- This recipe yields about 6 servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
