Description
Classic homemade meatloaf featuring ground beef, sautéed onions, fresh parsley, and a flavorful ketchup-based glaze that bakes to a juicy and tender perfection. This easy recipe combines pantry staples into a comforting dish perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)
- 1 medium onion (about 1 cup), finely chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp ketchup
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free bread crumbs)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Glaze:
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 ½ tsp white vinegar
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Prep: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup, and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Onions: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a plate to cool slightly.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, eggs, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons ketchup, fresh parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Use your hands (wearing disposable gloves if preferred) to mix gently until the ingredients are just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape Meatloaf and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder together in a small bowl until smooth.
- Add the Glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven after the initial 40 minutes. Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice and more flavorful.
Notes
- For best results, use ground beef with 80-85% lean fat to keep the meatloaf moist.
- Using Panko breadcrumbs gives a lighter texture; gluten-free bread crumbs can be substituted for dietary needs.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough texture.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial for juicy slices.
- The glaze can be adjusted to taste by varying the amount of brown sugar or vinegar.
- Instant-read thermometer ensures the meatloaf is cooked safely and perfectly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: meatloaf, ground beef meatloaf, baked meatloaf, classic meatloaf recipe, easy meatloaf, dinner recipe
