Here’s a classic, hearty meatloaf recipe—moist, flavorful, and perfect for dinner:
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian herbs
- Optional: 1/2 cup grated carrot or zucchini for extra moisture
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 5 minutes.
- Add ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, herbs, and optional veggies.
- Mix gently with hands or a spoon until combined (don’t overmix, or meatloaf will be dense).
3. Shape and Bake
- Place mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a glaze.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Rest and Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps it hold together.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite sauce.
💡 Tips for Best Meatloaf
- Use half pork, half beef for extra moisture.
- Adding a splash of milk or grated veggies keeps the meatloaf tender.
- Leftovers make great meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
If you want, I can make a quick 1-hour skillet meatloaf version that cooks on the stovetop instead of baking.
Do you want me to do that?
