Classic Easy Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. With its tender texture, rich flavour, and glossy sweet-and-savory glaze, this timeless dish is a family favorite that never goes out of style. Simple ingredients come together to create a hearty meal that feels both satisfying and comforting.
Easy Meatloaf:
Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family meals, this easy recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Ground beef blended with breadcrumbs, seasonings, and aromatics creates a moist and flavorful loaf that slices beautifully every time.Whether served with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh side salad, this classic meatloaf recipe is dependable, delicious, and wonderfully filling.
History:
Meatloaf has roots dating back to ancient Rome, where finely chopped meat was mixed with bread and spices. However, the modern American meatloaf became popular during the Great Depression, when families stretched ingredients by combining ground meat with fillers like breadcrumbs and oats.Over time, meatloaf evolved into a beloved American comfort food. The addition of ketchup-based glaze became a defining feature, adding a sweet and tangy finish that complements the savory meat.Today, meatloaf remains a staple in home kitchens, celebrated for its simplicity, affordability, and heartwarming flavour.
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Classic Easy Meatloaf – Juicy, Tender, Homestyle Comfort Food with Sweet & Savory Glaze
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs (700g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish or loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, mix glaze ingredients and spread evenly over the top.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use 80/20 beef for best moisture and flavour.
- Avoid overmixing to keep meatloaf tender.
- Let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Line pan with parchment for easy cleanup.
- Add grated carrots for hidden veggies.
- Substitute turkey for lighter option.
- Double recipe for larger gatherings.
- Store leftovers refrigerated up to 4 days.
Tips for Meatloaf
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk for extra tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Bake on a sheet pan for crispier edges.
- Add a splash of beef broth for extra moisture.
- Mix by hand gently to avoid compact texture.
- Try BBQ sauce instead of ketchup glaze for variation.
- Freeze raw loaf for meal prep convenience.
- Make meatloaf sandwiches with leftovers.
FAQ for Meatloaf:
Q: Why is my meatloaf dry?
Overbaking or using lean meat can cause dryness.
Q: Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, freeze cooked or uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers, oats, or panko work well.
Q: How do I know it’s done?
Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Conclusion:
Easy Meatloaf is a dependable, flavorful dish that brings classic comfort to your dinner table. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a juicy, satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This timeless recipe proves that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most delicious.