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Classic Baked Meatloaf

Classic Baked Meatloaf

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Classic Baked Meatloaf: A Timeless Comfort Food Favorite

There’s something deeply satisfying about a hearty, flavorful meatloaf fresh out of the oven. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth, nostalgia, and comfort all in one bite. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or simply a slice of fresh bread, Classic Baked Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style.

This easy-to-make recipe combines simple ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family dinners. It’s a dish that’s filling, flavorful, and versatile enough to suit a variety of tastes. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a perfectly baked meatloaf, share some tips for making it even better, and offer ideas for how to serve and enjoy this timeless meal.

Why Classic Baked Meatloaf is a Must-Have Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

The beauty of classic baked meatloaf lies in its simplicity. Using just a few pantry staples, such as ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. Add in a tangy ketchup glaze, and you’ve got the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.

2. Versatile and Customizable

Classic meatloaf is a great base for customization. Whether you like it extra savory, sweet, or spicy, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your personal tastes. You can swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, or add different herbs and vegetables to enhance the flavor.

3. Great for Leftovers

One of the best things about meatloaf is that it’s even better the next day. Leftovers can be sliced and served in sandwiches, tossed with pasta, or even eaten cold for a quick snack. This makes it a great option for meal prep or family gatherings.

4. Budget-Friendly

Meatloaf is an affordable dish to make, especially when you’re feeding a family or looking for a hearty meal on a budget. It stretches a pound or two of meat and can feed several people with minimal effort.

Classic Baked Meatloaf Recipe

Let’s dive into how you can make a classic, comforting baked meatloaf in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean is ideal for a moist, tender meatloaf)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick in the glaze)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  3. Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form a loaf shape. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can shape the meatloaf by hand and place it directly on a baking sheet.
  4. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using) to make the glaze. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are fully incorporated.
  5. Top the Meatloaf: Spoon the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula. The glaze will add a sweet and tangy finish that caramelizes while baking, giving the meatloaf a rich, flavorful exterior.
  6. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. If you prefer a more caramelized glaze, you can broil the meatloaf for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
  7. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes it easier to cut into perfect slices.
  8. Enjoy: Serve your classic baked meatloaf with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.