Classic Meatloaf

Table of Contents

Classic Meatloaf is a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also provides a sense of comfort and heartiness. It is ideal for family dinners. There is little doubt that this meatloaf will quickly become a fan favorite due to its soft, aromatic texture and its creamy glaze. The following is a straightforward recipe for a traditional meatloaf that is both flavorful and delicious!

Parts and pieces:

To the Meatloaf, please:

1. fifty-five centimeters of ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
The addition of half a pound of ground pork is optional but will add flavor and moisture.
Two cloves of garlic, minced, and one medium-sized onion, cut very finely
1 cup of breadcrumbs, especially plain breadcrumbs
a quarter cup of milk (the best option is buttermilk or whole milk).
a single huge egg
Worcestershire sauce, one tablespoon amount
Thyme, dried, or Italian spice, to taste, one teaspoon
One milligram of salt
Black pepper, one-half of a teaspoon
The amount of olive oil required to sauté onions and garlic is one tablespoon.

Regarding the Glaze:

half a cup of ketchup
1 tablespoon of sugar, brown type
1 tablespoon of mustard, either yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
You may choose to use one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

Details to follow:

Put the oven on to preheat:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Grease a loaf pan measuring 9 inches by 5 inches or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Combination for the Meatloaf:

In a skillet, bring the olive oil to a temperature of medium. Sauté the chopped onions for around five minutes, or until they have become more pliable. Once the garlic has been minced, add it to the pan and continue to simmer for another minute. Take the pan from the heat and allow it to cool gently.
The ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, pepper, and the onions and garlic that have been sautéed should be mixed together in a large mixing bowl. Utilizing either your hands or a spoon, gently combine all of the ingredients until they are just combined. Take care not to overmix the mixture, as this can result in the meatloaf becoming tough.

3. Mold and bake the pie:

The beef mixture should be shaped into a loaf and then transferred into the loaf pan that has been prepared. It is also possible to freeform it into the shape of a loaf on a baking sheet if you would like the exterior to have a deeper crust.
Place the pan in the oven that has been preheated and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is completely cooked through and the temperature on the inside reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius). In the event that you prefer a crust that is slightly crispier, you can bake it for a few minutes longer.

4. Make preparations for the glaze:

In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar (if you are using it). Whisk all of these ingredients together while the meatloaf is baking.
After the meatloaf has been baking for approximately ten minutes, spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf and place it back in the oven. Continue baking until the glaze becomes bubbly and slightly caramelized.

5. Give the Meatloaf Some Time to Relax:

Immediately after the meatloaf has been cooked, take it out of the oven and allow it to rest for ten minutes before slicing it. It is able to keep its juices thanks to this.

Sixth, serve:

Your preferred sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a straightforward salad, should be served alongside the meatloaf after it has been sliced.

Advice:

A varied texture can be achieved by substituting the breadcrumbs with other ingredients like as crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice.
The use of lean ground turkey or chicken, rather than beef or pork, is a healthier alternative to the traditional version.
If you like a more flavorful glaze, add a little hot sauce or chili paste to the ketchup mixture for a kick.
Leftovers make great sandwiches the next day!

Enjoy:
This Classic Meatloaf is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, especially with its tangy-sweet glaze. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s excellent for serving a crowd or savoring as leftovers!