Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup ketchup or glaze for topping
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix thoroughly but gently to avoid compacting the meat too much.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it lightly into an even loaf shape. Alternatively, shape it by hand on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add Topping: Spread 1/2 cup of ketchup or glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will form a delicious caramelized layer while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60–75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the loaf.
- Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
- Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for extra flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the meat; this will make the meatloaf dense.
- For a sweeter glaze, mix ketchup with a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- Optional: add diced vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This classic meatloaf recipe is a comforting and timeless dish perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. With its flavorful blend of spices, juicy meat, and savory glaze, it delivers a perfect balance of taste and texture. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this meatloaf is ideal for any occasion and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Enjoy a warm, hearty slice that everyone will love!