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My Favourite Meatloaf

My Favourite Meatloaf - Delicious Meal Ideas

There’s something uniquely comforting about a slice of meatloaf. It’s not just a dish; it’s a memory. I still remember the smell of my mom's meatloaf wafting through the house on Sunday evenings. It was the kind of aroma that wrapped around you like a warm blanket. Now, as an adult, I’ve perfected this recipe. My favorite meatloaf stands out with its flavorful blend of ingredients that creates a moist, savory delight.
Ever wondered why meatloaf is so dear to many hearts? It’s versatile, filling, and inexpensive. Plus, leftovers? The best!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf:
  • 2 lbs ground beef, 80–85% lean
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced ~1 cup
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
  • 3 Tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped finely
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternative
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian herb blend
  • 2 Tbsp tomato ketchup
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce optional
For the Meatloaf Sauce:
  • 3/4 cup tomato ketchup
  • 2 Tbsp packed brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp white vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika optional

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf bakes evenly and achieves that perfect crust on the outside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
  1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your meatloaf.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the ground beef, eggs, parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, pepper, Italian herb blend, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands to mix, but don’t overdo it! You want everything integrated, but not mushy.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
  1. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf-like form, ensuring the top is even. This helps it cook uniformly.
Step 5: Prepare the Meatloaf Sauce
  1. In a separate bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This will be the glaze that elevates your meatloaf.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Spread half of the sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour. Halfway through baking, pour the remaining sauce over the loaf if you like a sticky finish.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
  1. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 160°F (70°C) for ground beef. Once it's done, let it rest for 10 minutes.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
  1. Slice the meatloaf using a sharp knife. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Use Lean Ground Beef: Aim for 80-85% lean; this will keep the meatloaf moist without too much fat.
  • Don't Overmix: Mixing too much will create a dense meatloaf. Gentle hands are the key.
  • Rest Before Slicing: Give it some time to rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute.
  • Customize Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.
  • Glaze Generously: The sauce can make or break your meatloaf. Don’t skimp on it!