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The Best Meatloaf Recipe of Your Life Recipe

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3.8 from 2 reviews

This classic American meatloaf recipe delivers a moist and tender loaf topped with a sticky, caramelized ketchup glaze. Utilizing a simple breadcrumb and milk mixture, sautéed onions and garlic, and a blend of Worcestershire sauce and fresh herbs, this comforting dish is perfect for a hearty dinner. The secret to its tenderness and flavor lies in soaking the breadcrumbs and gentle mixing of ingredients before baking to perfection at 350ºF.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Base

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 ½ tsp coarse salt, divided use
  • 3 large cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp minced fresh parsley or 2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 ¼ tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 lbs ground beef

Topping

  • ⅓ cup ketchup

Instructions

  1. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and whole milk, stirring together and letting the mixture stand so the breadcrumbs absorb the milk fully.
  2. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ensure it's ready to bake the meatloaf evenly.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and 1 teaspoon of the coarse salt, cooking until softened, about 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  4. Mix Flavors into Breadcrumbs: Transfer the cooled onion and garlic mixture into the breadcrumb and milk bowl. Stir in ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, the remaining salt (1 ½ teaspoons), black pepper, and parsley for a burst of flavor.
  5. Add Eggs and Ground Beef: When the mixture is cool to the touch, add the eggs and mix well. Then incorporate the ground beef, gently working the ingredients together with your hands until thoroughly combined but not overmixed to maintain tenderness.
  6. Shape and Top the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf approximately 9 by 5 inches in size. Dollop the remaining ⅓ cup ketchup on top and spread evenly with a spoon to create a caramelized glaze during baking.
  7. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf in the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160ºF, ensuring it's fully cooked and juicy.
  8. Rest Before Serving: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest on the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period helps juices redistribute for optimal moistness before slicing.

Notes

  • Use fresh parsley for better flavor, but dried parsley works as well.
  • Letting the breadcrumbs absorb milk ensures moistness in the meatloaf.
  • Do not overmix the ground beef to prevent a dense texture.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid under or overcooking.
  • Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing improves juiciness and texture.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/the-best-meatloaf-recipe-of-your-life-recipe/