Description
This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Meatloaf recipe features a classic blend of ground beef, savory sautéed onions and garlic, seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and herbs, then baked to juicy perfection. The loaf is topped with a sweet ketchup glaze, making it a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and optional parsley. Gently combine to avoid compacting the mixture, ensuring a tender meatloaf.
- Shape and Transfer: Place the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf form, ensuring an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Add Glaze (Optional): Spread an extra layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf to create a sweet, flavorful glaze that caramelizes during baking.
- Bake and Rest: Bake the meatloaf for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer. Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Using 80/20 ground beef ensures the meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful.
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain moisture.
- Sautéing onions and garlic beforehand develops deeper flavors.
- Adding ketchup on top creates a nice caramelized glaze but is optional.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results to avoid overcooking.