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The Best Meatloaf Recipe

The Best Meatloaf Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 20 reviews

A classic and moist meatloaf recipe featuring ground beef, sautéed onions, and a flavorful glaze made from ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, this meatloaf is easy to prepare and delivers comforting, home-style goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

  • 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)
  • 1 medium onion (1 cup), finely chopped
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Tbsp ketchup
  • 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Glaze Sauce

  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 ½ tsp white vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

  1. Prep – Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup, and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté Onions – Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add 1 tsp olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. Make the Meatloaf Mixture – In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions (cooled), eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, chopped parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Use your hands (wear gloves if preferred) to mix gently until all ingredients are just combined without overmixing.
  4. Shape Meatloaf and Bake – Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.
  5. Make the Sauce – While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl until well combined.
  6. Add the Glaze – After the initial 40 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the prepared sauce evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F as measured by an instant-read thermometer.
  7. Rest and Serve – Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the meatloaf set and makes for easier, cleaner slices.

Notes

  • Use gloves when mixing the meatloaf mixture to keep hands clean and to mix more evenly.
  • If preferred, substitute Panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
  • Check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe 160°F before serving.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps juices redistribute and prevents crumbling.
  • Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf recipe, classic meatloaf, easy meatloaf, baked meatloaf, ground beef meatloaf

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