Best Meatloaf Recipe
This Best Meatloaf Recipe is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this classic comfort food is perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday meals, and delicious leftovers.
Ingredients
- For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 recommended
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 3: Shape & Bake
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in prepared pan or on baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Step 4: Add Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- After 45 minutes, spread glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Return to oven and bake an additional 15–20 minutes.
- Step 5: Check Doneness
- Meatloaf is done when internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for best moisture and flavor.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
- Resting before slicing keeps juices inside the meatloaf.
- A meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness.
- Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches.