Classic American meatloaf is a comforting family dinner made with seasoned ground beef Breadcrumbs, onion, and a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. It is simple to prepare and delicious with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
1 1/2 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Glaze
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How to Make Meatloaf
1. Prepare the Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Mix the breadcrumbs and milk in a large bowl and let them sit for a few minutes.
Add the ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing because it can make the meatloaf dense.
2. Shape the Meatloaf
Place the mixture on a lined baking sheet and shape it into a loaf. You can also use a loaf pan.
3. Prepare the glaze
Mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl until smooth.
Spread about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
4. Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the center reaches 160°F (71°C) on an instant-read thermometer. The exact cooking time depends on the size and shape of the loaf.
During the final part of baking, brush the remaining glaze over the top.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the slices hold together and keeps the meatloaf juicy.
What to Serve With Meatloaf
Classic meatloaf goes especially well with:
Mashed potatoes
Green beans
Roasted vegetables
Corn
Simple garden salad
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
Don't overmix the ground beef.
Use breadcrumbs soaked in milk to help keep the meatloaf tender.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing.
Use a thermometer to check the center rather than relying only on cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This Classic American Meatloaf Recipe is an easy and satisfying comfort food that works perfectly for a family dinner. Serve it with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables for a complete homemade meal.