ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. If you’re not using a loaf pan, you can shape the meatloaf on a baking sheet for a more rustic, free-form style.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if using).
- Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf shape by hand if you’re using a baking sheet. If you’re making a free-form meatloaf, ensure it has a consistent shape so it cooks evenly.
- Smooth the top and sides of the loaf with a spatula to make it uniform.
4. Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar (if using), and mustard (if using) until smooth. This will create a tangy, sweet glaze that enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
- Spread about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures the meatloaf is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- After 30 minutes, check the meatloaf and baste with the remaining glaze for an extra layer of flavor and shine.
6. Rest Before Slicing:
- Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents the meatloaf from falling apart when sliced.
7. Slice and Serve:
- After the resting period, slice the meatloaf into generous portions. Serve with your favorite side dishes, like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Classic baked meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to make your meal complete:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the savory richness of meatloaf.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans make a great accompaniment to balance out the meal.
- Mac and Cheese: For a more indulgent meal, serve your meatloaf with cheesy macaroni and cheese.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will help cut through the richness of the meatloaf.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is another classic side dish that pairs beautifully with meatloaf.
Tips for Success
🌟 Use Ground Beef with Fat: Choose a ground beef blend that’s around 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat) for the best flavor and moisture. Leaner meat may result in a dry meatloaf.
🌟 Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf dense. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined.
🌟 Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or even grated cheese to the meat mixture to customize the flavor. Garlic or parmesan cheese would be great additions.
🌟 Freezer-Friendly: You can make meatloaf ahead of time and freeze it for later. Simply shape the meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then cook as usual.
🌟 Rest the Meatloaf: Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to help it set and make slicing easier. This also helps keep it moist.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of classic baked meatloaf lies in its simplicity and versatility. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and seasonings creates a flavorful, moist base, while the glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to balance out the richness of the meat.
The key to a perfect meatloaf is in the balance of moisture and texture. The breadcrumbs and milk help bind the ingredients together without making the meatloaf too dense, while the Worcestershire sauce and seasonings give it a savory depth of flavor. Baking it with a glaze on top not only enhances the taste but also gives it a beautiful, glossy finish.
Final Thoughts
Classic Baked Meatloaf is one of those dishes that never gets old. It’s comforting, satisfying, and easy to make, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or a Sunday family dinner. The tender, juicy meatloaf with its flavorful glaze is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to use up simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
So, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this classic meatloaf recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
Enjoy your Classic Baked Meatloaf! 🍽🍖
ADVERTISEMENT
