Description
Hearty Classic Meatloaf with a Delicious Glaze blends ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatic seasonings into a comforting midwestern dinner. Generous ketchup-based glaze adds tangy sweetness that completes this nostalgic meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsps brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for effortless cleanup and presentation.
- Bread Hydration: Soak breadcrumbs in milk, creating a moisture-rich foundation that ensures a tender, succulent meatloaf texture.
- Flavor Fusion: Gently combine ground beef with diced onions, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix with a delicate touch to maintain the meat’s delicate structure and prevent compacting.
- Loaf Formation: Shape the meat mixture into a symmetrical, elongated loaf approximately 8 inches long, promoting even cooking and appealing visual presentation.
- Glaze Crafting: Whisk ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce into a harmonious, glossy coating that will elevate the meatloaf’s flavor profile.
- Initial Glazing: Brush half the prepared glaze over the meatloaf, creating a preliminary layer of caramelized sweetness and depth.
- Roasting Cycle: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the meat to develop rich, golden-brown edges and concentrate its savory essence.
- Final Glazing and Cooking: Reapply the remaining glaze, then continue baking for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring both safety and optimal juiciness.
- Resting Phase: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes, permitting internal juices to redistribute and guaranteeing a moist, cohesive final result.
- Serving: Slice the meatloaf and plate with complementary sides like velvety mashed potatoes or crisp, verdant green beans.
Notes
Prevent Dry Meatloaf: Use a combination of ground meats (beef, pork, veal) to increase moisture and enhance flavor complexity.
Handle Meat Gently: Mix ingredients with a light touch to avoid compressing the meat, which can result in a dense, tough texture.
Glaze Application Technique: Apply glaze in layers for maximum caramelization and depth of flavor, ensuring even coating without overwhelming the meat.
Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, avoiding overcooking while guaranteeing food safety at 160°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg