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The Meatloaf Recipe

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4 from 1 review

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

A classic and comforting meatloaf recipe featuring lean ground beef mixed with savory onions, Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley, baked to perfection and topped with a tangy-sweet chili ketchup glaze. This hearty dish serves 8 and makes a perfect family dinner.

Ingredients

Meatloaf:

  • ½ medium onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon butter
  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ¾ cup Italian bread crumbs (or seasoned breadcrumbs)
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup (or chili sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Meatloaf Sauce:

  • ½ cup chili sauce
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Onions: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat and cook the diced onions until they are tender and translucent. Remove from heat and allow them to cool completely before using.
  3. Soak Breadcrumbs: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Italian breadcrumbs. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the liquid, which helps keep the meatloaf moist.
  4. Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: Add the lean ground beef, cooled cooked onions, 1 tablespoon of ketchup or chili sauce, Italian seasoning, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Gently mix all ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat.
  5. Shape and Bake: Shape the mixture into a loaf approximately 8 inches long by 4 inches wide on the prepared baking pan. Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes in the preheated oven.
  6. Prepare Sauce and Finish Baking: While the meatloaf is baking, combine the chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar (if using) in a small bowl to make the glaze. After 40 minutes of baking, spread the sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. For a caramelized glaze, broil the meatloaf for 1 to 2 minutes if desired.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and grease.
  • Letting the breadcrumb mixture sit helps retain moisture in the meatloaf.
  • Internal temperature should reach 160°F to ensure it is safely cooked.
  • Broiling at the end adds a nice caramelized finish to the glaze.
  • Brown sugar in the sauce is optional and adds a sweeter, richer flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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