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

The Best Meatloaf Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This classic meatloaf recipe combines ground beef and pork with a flavorful mix of breadcrumbs, milk, sautéed onions, garlic, and seasonings. Topped with a tangy ketchup glaze and baked until perfectly moist and tender, it’s a comforting, hearty meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Base

  • 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
  • 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 2 lbs ground beef)

Glaze

  • 1/3 cup ketchup

Instructions

  1. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and whole milk, stirring them together and allowing the mixture to soak so the breadcrumbs absorb the milk fully.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion with 1 teaspoon of salt and cook until softened, about 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool briefly before adding to the breadcrumb mixture.
  3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: Stir 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, minced parsley, remaining salt, and black pepper into the breadcrumb and vegetable mixture. Once cooled, add the eggs and mix gently but thoroughly. Then incorporate the ground beef and pork, using your hands to blend everything evenly without overworking.
  4. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Shape it into a loaf approximately 9 by 5 inches using your hands. Dollop the remaining 1/3 cup ketchup over the top and spread evenly with a spoon to create a glaze.
  5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the center rack of a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC). Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160ºF (71ºC), ensuring the meatloaf is fully cooked but still juicy.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest on the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in moist slices ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use a food thermometer to check doneness for safety and best texture.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest after baking prevents it from drying out when sliced.
  • If using only ground beef, you can substitute both meats with 2 lbs of beef.
  • Fresh parsley adds a brighter flavor but dried parsley works well if fresh is unavailable.
  • The ketchup glaze can be sweetened with a bit of brown sugar or replaced with barbecue sauce for variation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/the-best-meatloaf-recipe/