Classic Meatloaf – Comfort Food at Its Best!
When it comes to comforting, hearty meals, nothing beats a classic meatloaf. This Classic Meatloaf Recipe features a flavorful blend of seasoned ground beef, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that seals in all the deliciousness. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying meal for one!
This recipe appears in our cookbook “Cooking for One – Not an Army” along with other delicious recipes. It’s made for one, but you can easily double (or triple) this recipe for company or leftovers! If you didn’t get a copy yet, our book is on Amazon right here!
Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful and moist meatloaf that everyone will love. You can also check out these tips for perfect meatloaf every time to ensure success.
- Oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing
- Onions: ¼ cup, chopped
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Ground Beef: 8 ounces
- Worcestershire Sauce: ½ teaspoon for added depth of flavor
- Egg: 1 large egg to bind everything together
- Breadcrumbs: 3 tablespoons for texture and stability
Glaze Ingredients:
- Ketchup: ¼ cup
- Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon
You can substitute lean ground beef or a ground turkey blend for a lighter version.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a meatloaf that’s packed with flavor and perfectly tender. For additional tips on achieving a juicy texture, visit this guide to juicy meatloaf.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a small baking dish.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, place the ground beef. Add the sautéed onion mixture, Worcestershire sauce, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to over-mix, as it can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Shape the mixture into an oval loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Make the Glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl until smooth.
- Apply the Glaze: Take the meatloaf out of the oven and brush the glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the meatloaf stay moist and hold its shape.
Tips & Tricks
- Avoid Over-Mixing: Mixing the meat mixture too much can result in a dense, tough meatloaf. Just mix until all the ingredients are combined.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of paprika to the meat mixture for an additional boost of flavor.
- Resting Is Key: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing will help it hold its shape and stay juicy.
What to Serve with Classic Meatloaf
This comforting dish pairs well with classic sides and fresh veggies for a complete meal. For more ideas on the best side dishes to serve with meatloaf, check out this collection of side dishes.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect companion to meatloaf.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a crisp, fresh contrast to the rich meatloaf.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are great for soaking up any extra glaze.
Leftovers & Storage
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container. Meatloaf keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Other Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this Classic Meatloaf Recipe, you might love trying other meatloaf variations. From adding vegetables for a zesty twist to creating a spooky Halloween-themed dinner, here are some delicious options from our website:
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- Zesty Vegetable and Beef Meatloaf Recipe: A flavorful twist on classic meatloaf with the addition of fresh vegetables and a zesty seasoning blend.
- Crockpot Meatloaf Freezer Meal: An easy and convenient crockpot meatloaf that’s perfect for meal prepping and busy weeknights.
- Mummy Meatloaf Halloween Dinner Recipe: A fun and spooky meatloaf recipe shaped like a mummy—perfect for Halloween celebrations!
