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Classic Comfort Meatloaf

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A tried-and-true classic meatloaf recipe featuring ground beef, a tangy tomato glaze, and a moist, tender texture perfect for hearty family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (75 g)
  • 1/4 cup milk (60 ml)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup milk. Let soak for 5 minutes until breadcrumbs absorb the liquid.
  3. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the finely chopped onions until translucent, about 4-5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed onions and garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 9×5 inches in a loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
  6. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth to make the glaze.
  7. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough meatloaf. Soak breadcrumbs in milk to keep the meatloaf moist. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices. Tent with foil if browning too fast.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner, ground beef, easy meatloaf, tomato glaze, hearty meal