What is the secret to making a delicious classic meatloaf?

Balancing ingredients is key013using enough breadcrumbs and milk keeps the meatloaf moist while the egg acts as a binder. A combination of seasoning and a flavorful glaze adds depth and brightness to the dish. Mixing gently but thoroughly also prevents dryness.

How do you keep meatloaf from drying out?

Incorporate moisture-retaining ingredients like eggs, milk, diced onions, and ketchup glaze. Cooking the meatloaf until the internal temperature hits 165degF, checked with a meat thermometer, ensures it's cooked through yet juicy.

Should meatloaf be cooked in a loaf pan or on a baking sheet?

Both work well: baking in a loaf pan yields a uniform shape and retains moisture, while baking on a sheet allows bottom evaporation and a less soggy crust. Experiment with both to see which texture you prefer.

What can I do if my meatloaf falls apart?

This often happens if binding agents like egg and breadcrumbs are insufficient or if the mix is overhandled. Be sure to incorporate binding ingredients, handle the mixture gently, and let it rest briefly before baking.

Classic Meatloaf Recipe: Easy and Delicious Comfort

Description

🍽️ This classic meatloaf recipe is the perfect comfort food, ideal for those seeking a heart-warming and satisfying meal at home.
🥩 With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade dish ready in just over an hour!

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20)
1 large egg
1/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 cup minced onion

Glaze:
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
Whisk together the egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mince the onion finely. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg mixture, breadcrumb mixture, and minced onion. Mix gently by hand until evenly combined, taking care not to overmix.
Shape the mixture into a loaf approximately 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 2 inches tall on a foil-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan for neat edges.
Mix the glaze ingredients together and spread evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
Bake for 50-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

🔪 Use ground beef with an 80/20 fat content for optimal flavor and moisture. For a less greasy option, 90% lean ground beef can also be used, keeping it moist with milk and egg.
🧅 Finely mince the onion for better loaf cohesion, or consider sautéing the onions for extra flavor. Alternatively, onion powder can provide a finer texture.
🌡️ Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is correct.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 5-10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 328
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 676 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 19 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg