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To make the perfect classic meatloaf, gather these fresh ingredients: - 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness) - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 large egg - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 cup ketchup (divided) - 2 tablespoons brown sugar Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a flavorful and moist meatloaf. Ground beef is the base. I recommend an 80/20 blend. This fat ratio keeps it juicy. The breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf while adding texture. Milk softens the mixture, making every bite tender. Onion and bell pepper add sweetness and depth. Don't skip the garlic; it packs a punch of flavor. The egg is crucial for binding, ensuring your meatloaf holds its shape. Worcestershire sauce gives a savory kick. Thyme and oregano enhance the overall taste. Salt and black pepper balance the flavors. Finally, the ketchup and brown sugar create a sweet glaze for the top. This adds a lovely finish and extra moisture. Now, you are set to create your perfect classic meatloaf! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for cooking meatloaf. - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan. This helps with easy cleanup. - In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and milk. - Add finely chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and egg. - Pour in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. - Use your hands to combine the ingredients. Be gentle so the meatloaf stays tender. - Take the meat mixture and place it on your prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. - Shape the mixture into a loaf about 2 inches thick. This helps it cook evenly. - In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup ketchup with brown sugar. Stir until blended. - Spread half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and a nice shine. - Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour. - Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C). - After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This keeps it moist and easy to slice. - Serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or green beans. - Role of Ingredients: The right ingredients make all the difference. Ground beef with 80/20 fat ensures juiciness. Breadcrumbs bind the mix and add texture. Milk helps keep the meatloaf moist. - Techniques for Moist Meatloaf: Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing toughens the meat. Form the loaf with care. A thicker loaf cooks evenly. Let it rest after baking to keep it juicy. - Spice and Herb Variations: Use dried thyme and oregano for depth. You can add garlic powder or paprika for a kick. Fresh herbs can brighten the taste. Experiment with your favorite spices. - Alternative Glazes: Ketchup and brown sugar is classic. Try BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor. A honey glaze can add sweetness. Mustard mixed with ketchup can bring tang. - Recommended Kitchen Tools: A large bowl is key for mixing. Use a loaf pan or baking sheet lined with parchment. A spatula helps in shaping. - Importance of Using a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures safety. Check that the center reads 160°F. This prevents undercooking or overcooking. Trust the thermometer for the best results. Pro Tips Choose the Right Meat: For a juicy meatloaf, opt for an 80/20 blend of ground beef. The fat content keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Aim for just combined. Rest Before Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a moist slice. Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with the glaze! Add some hot sauce, brown sugar, or mustard for a kick of flavor. {{image_2}} Adding vegetables to meatloaf makes it tastier and healthier. You can mix in finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach. These veggies add color and flavor. Plus, they boost the nutrition. More nutrients mean better health for you and your family. If you want a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. These meats are leaner than beef. They can still give you a great meatloaf. For plant-based eaters, use lentils or chickpeas. You can mash them and mix in spices for a tasty meatloaf. Change the taste of your meatloaf with different flavors. For an Italian twist, add basil and oregano. BBQ lovers can mix in smoked paprika and chipotle. Want some heat? Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You can also try unique ingredients like cheese or mushrooms for extra flavor. - Allow the meatloaf to cool to room temperature before storing. - Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. - Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. - Leftovers can last up to four days in the fridge. - To freeze, slice the meatloaf into portions. - Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store each slice. - Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. - It can last up to three months in the freezer. - Fresh meatloaf lasts about four days in the fridge. - Frozen meatloaf can stay good for three months. - Check for discoloration or off smells to spot spoilage. - If it feels slimy or sticky, discard it right away. The safe internal temperature for meatloaf is 160°F (70°C). This ensures that any harmful bacteria are killed. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the center of the loaf. Cooking it to this temperature guarantees a safe and juicy meatloaf. Always let it rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even tastier. Yes, you can prepare meatloaf ahead of time. Mix all the ingredients and shape the loaf. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 24 hours. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw it in the fridge before cooking. To keep meatloaf moist, use a blend of meat with some fat, like ground beef 80/20. Adding milk and breadcrumbs helps also. Don’t overmix the meat. This can make it tough and dry. Another tip is to add a glaze, like ketchup mixed with brown sugar. This adds flavor and moisture on top. Yes, there are many alternatives to bread crumbs. You can use crushed crackers, oats, or crushed cornflakes. If you want a gluten-free option, try almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs. Each substitute gives a different texture. Make sure to adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly. To slice meatloaf, use a sharp knife. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking. This makes it easier to slice. Cut straight down instead of sawing back and forth. This helps keep it together and looking nice. Serve the slices with your favorite sides for a complete meal. This post covered how to make a tasty meatloaf from fresh ingredients. You learned about important steps like mixing, shaping, and baking. I also shared tips for texture and flavor. Variations can add fun to your meals, too. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. With these techniques, you can create a delicious dish that satisfies everyone. Enjoy your cooking journey and feel proud of your meatloaf skills!

Savory Comfort Meatloaf

A delicious and juicy meatloaf made with ground beef and a blend of savory ingredients.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 2 cup milk
  • 1 2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 2 cup ketchup (divided)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until all ingredients are well combined; be careful not to overmix as it can make the meatloaf tough.
  • Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or into a greased loaf pan. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 2 inches thick.
  • In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup ketchup and brown sugar until well blended. Spread half of this mixture over the top of the meatloaf for a delicious glaze.
  • Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  • After 30 minutes of baking, you can brush the remaining ketchup glaze over the meatloaf to enhance the flavor and presentation.
  • Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it moist. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing for better moisture retention.
Keyword beef, comfort food, meatloaf