Description
This classic meatloaf recipe combines ground beef and pork with flavorful ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, fresh parsley, and garlic, topped with a tangy ketchup glaze. Baked to perfection, it delivers a moist, tender loaf that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 1/2 tsp coarse salt, divided
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp minced fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
- 1 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork (or use 2 lbs total ground beef)
Instructions
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and whole milk. Stir well and let the mixture stand to absorb the milk fully, ensuring a moist base for the meatloaf. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and 1 teaspoon of the coarse salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine the Mixture: Transfer the cooked onion and garlic to the breadcrumb mixture. Stir in 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, minced parsley, the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and black pepper. Once the mixture has cooled to touch temperature, beat in the eggs. Then add the ground beef and ground pork. Use your hands to gently but thoroughly mix all ingredients until fully combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Scrape the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf roughly measuring 9 by 5 inches using your hands for an even form. Dollop the remaining 1/3 cup ketchup on top and spread it evenly over the surface with a spoon to create a flavorful glaze.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160ºF (70ºC), ensuring the meat is cooked through and juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest on the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute for a moist and tender texture. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the ground pork with an additional pound of ground beef if preferred.
- Using fresh parsley adds brightness, but dried works well too; adjust quantities accordingly.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160ºF to guarantee safe consumption of ground meat.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps prevent it from falling apart and keeps it juicy.
- For extra flavor, you can add a bit of smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder to the mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
