Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
or beef/pork blend
- 1 cup diced onion
chopped small
- ¾ cup bread crumbs
or panko crumbs
- ⅓ cup milk
broth or water
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp tomato paste
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp white vinegar
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F and then line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- 2
Add the lean ground beef, finely chopped onion, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder and tomato paste to a large bowl. Mix it together really well.
- 3
Create a loaf shape by forming with your hands or by packing the beef mixture into a greased loaf pan and then flipping it over onto the baking sheet. Remove the loaf pan and it will create the perfect loaf shape.
- 4
Bake the meatloaf uncovered and without the sauce topping for 40 minutes. While the meatloaf is cooking, mix together the ketchup and white vinegar. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the ketchup mixture along the top and sides. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until fully cooked inside.
- 5
Once cooked, Let the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes to allow the juices inside the meatloaf to distribute evenly. Slice into pieces and serve.
Classic Meatloaf Recipe
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Based on 25 ratings
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About this Recipe
Looking for that ultimate comforting, hearty classic meatloaf recipe that tastes just like you remember from childhood? This timeless dish promises to bring warmth and satisfying flavor to your family dinner table, proving why some recipes are truly enduring.
This isn't just any meatloaf; it's a beloved family favorite that masterfully balances rich beef flavor with a perfectly moist and tender texture. The secret lies in a thoughtful combination of simple ingredients. Using lean ground beef alongside eggs, bread crumbs, and milk ensures a succulent crumb, while the thoughtful inclusion of both garlic and onion powders with fresh diced onion builds a deep, aromatic flavor foundation without overwhelming the palate.
When you slice into this meatloaf, you can expect a beautifully tender interior, encased in a golden-brown crust. Each bite offers a satisfying, savory experience, subtly enhanced by the sweetness of the onion and the classic umami notes. This dish provides that ultimate comfort food experience, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a satisfying Sunday supper that everyone will love.
Easily adapt this classic meatloaf to suit your pantry or preferences. Feel free to swap the lean ground beef for a beef and pork blend if you prefer extra richness and moisture. If traditional bread crumbs aren't available, panko crumbs work wonderfully for a slightly lighter texture. For the liquid, broth or even water can stand in for milk without compromising the meatloaf's tenderness.
Serve this classic meatloaf alongside creamy mashed potatoes and your favorite green vegetable for a complete, comforting meal. It's ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or any time you need a hearty, no-fuss centerpiece.