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There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a slice of Old-Fashioned Meatloaf, a dish that has graced dinner tables for generations.
This recipe takes you back to the basics with its tender, juicy beef, perfectly seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze.
It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out, perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.
Simple to prepare yet full of flavor, this meatloaf is sure to become a beloved staple in your home, just like it has been for countless families over the years.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Directions
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatloaf will cook evenly throughout, developing a perfect crust on the outside while staying tender and moist inside.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, and beaten eggs. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a wooden spoon, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The breadcrumbs and milk help keep the meatloaf moist, while the herbs and spices add layers of flavor.
Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a baking dish or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s even in size so that it cooks uniformly. Press down gently to compact the mixture, but not too firmly, as you want to avoid a dense texture.
Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This sweet and tangy glaze is the perfect finishing touch, adding a burst of flavor that complements the savory meatloaf. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, covering it completely.
Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The glaze should be caramelized and the meatloaf should be firm to the touch. If you notice the glaze browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the meatloaf with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Let It Rest and Serve
Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Serve your Old-Fashioned Meatloaf hot, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.
Tips
- Ground Beef: For the best texture, use a blend of ground beef with about 80% lean meat and 20% fat. This ratio ensures the meatloaf stays juicy without being overly greasy.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your meatloaf by adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even a handful of grated cheese for extra flavor.
- Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf makes for fantastic sandwiches the next day. Simply slice and reheat, or enjoy cold between two slices of bread with your favorite condiments.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is a true classic, delivering the kind of hearty, home-cooked goodness that never goes out of style. Perfect for family dinners, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with its comforting, familiar flavors. Enjoy!
