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Classic Meatloaf

This moist and flavorful classic meatloaf uses milk-soaked bread, sautéed onions, and simple seasonings to deliver a nostalgic yet delicious comfort food meal perfect for any dinner table.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 pounds ground beef 80 percent lean is perfect
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup plus more for topping
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a large bowl, pour the milk over the breadcrumbs and let them soak while preparing the other ingredients.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onions until soft and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
  4. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the breadcrumb mixture. Stir in the eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  5. Add the ground beef to the bowl and gently mix with your hands until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Form the mixture into a loaf shape on a lined baking sheet or place into a loaf pan.
  7. Spread a generous layer of ketchup on top of the loaf.
  8. Bake for 1 hour, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain the juices.

Notes

For added variation, try swapping the ketchup topping with BBQ sauce, adding a cheesy center, or making mini loaves using a muffin tin. Avoid overmixing the meat to maintain tenderness, and always let the loaf rest after baking to prevent dryness.