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The Best Meatloaf Recipe
Connie Hope

The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80% to 85% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze

  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 11/2 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to: 350°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
    Cook the onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chopped onion for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
    Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked onions, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
    Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and form into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall.
    Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
    Make the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
    Add glaze and finish baking: Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F.
    Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf sit for 10 to 15 minutes before cutting and serving.

Video

Notes

 

  • Do not overmix: Overmixing can make meatloaf dense and firm. Mix only until combined.
  • Use the right beef: Ground beef with some fat helps keep the meatloaf juicy.
  • For loaf pan baking: Bake at 375°F and check doneness with a thermometer.
  • For turkey or chicken versions: Cook to 165°F internal temperature.
  • Extra glaze option: Double the glaze if you like extra sauce for serving.
  • Skill Level: Easy

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 520mg