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Meatloaf Recipe

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

This easy meatloaf recipe delivers incredible flavor and tender texture with simple ingredients and foolproof techniques. Features a moist, juicy interior with a beautiful caramelized glaze that creates the perfect comfort food dinner for any family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 404
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Ingredients
  • 2 pounds ground beef preferably 15-20% fat content
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large onion grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 cubes beef bouillon cubes crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
Meatloaf Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar packed

Equipment

  • 9x5 inch Loaf Pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Box grater
  • Small bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or oil.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Set aside.
  3. Place panko breadcrumbs in a large mixing bowl. Grate the onion directly over the breadcrumbs and mix well, ensuring all breadcrumbs absorb the onion juices.
  4. Add ground beef, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, chopped parsley, dried thyme, crumbled bouillon cubes, and black pepper to the bowl.
  5. Using your hands, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix as this will create a dense texture.
  6. Shape the mixture into a loaf, pressing firmly and smoothing any surface cracks. Transfer to the prepared loaf pan.
  7. Brush the top generously with half of the prepared glaze mixture.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with most of the remaining glaze. If excess fat has pooled, carefully pour it off.
  9. Continue baking for 30 more minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Let rest for 10 minutes before removing from pan and slicing into thick pieces. Serve with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips: Use ground beef with at least 15% fat for the juiciest results. Grating the onion instead of dicing creates better texture and flavor distribution.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.