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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the meatloaf.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Form the Meatloaf
- Transfer the meat mixture to a lightly greased loaf pan. Press it down into the pan to ensure it’s evenly distributed. If you prefer a slightly crisper exterior, you can shape the meatloaf into a free-form loaf and place it on a baking sheet instead of using a pan.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. This tangy-sweet glaze will add a wonderful flavor to the top of your meatloaf.
Step 5: Apply the Glaze
- Spread half of the glaze mixture over the top of the meatloaf, smoothing it out with a spoon or spatula. Reserve the other half of the glaze for later.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you’re using a loaf pan, you may want to drain off any excess fat that accumulates during baking after about 30 minutes.
Step 7: Add the Remaining Glaze
- Once the meatloaf is nearly done, remove it from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the glaze to set and become slightly caramelized.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
- After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures a juicy, tender meatloaf. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dishes.
Tips for the Perfect Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
- Ground Beef: While leaner ground beef can be used, an 80% lean-to-20% fat ratio is ideal for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The fat helps keep the meatloaf juicy and tender.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use store-bought breadcrumbs or make your own by toasting slices of bread and then pulsing them in a food processor. For added flavor, try using Italian-style breadcrumbs.
- Customize the Glaze: While the ketchup-brown sugar-mustard glaze is classic, feel free to experiment with different flavors. You can try adding barbecue sauce, balsamic vinegar, or even a bit of hot sauce for a different twist.
- Add-ins: Add a handful of finely grated cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) to the meat mixture for extra richness. Or, sneak in some finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Leftovers: Meatloaf sandwiches are one of the best parts of leftovers! Slice the meatloaf and serve it on a bun with your favorite condiments, or use it in a hearty sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and cheese.
Final Thoughts
This old-fashioned meatloaf recipe is the perfect dish for bringing comfort and nostalgia to your dinner table. With simple, budget-friendly ingredients, it’s a meal that will satisfy your whole family. The savory meatloaf, topped with a tangy-sweet glaze, is a hearty meal that’s just as good the next day—whether you enjoy it on its own or as a sandwich.
Whether you’re revisiting this classic or making it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and most importantly, full of the love and comfort that only a homemade meatloaf can provide.
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