Make a moist, flavorful classic meatloaf perfect for a family dinner. This recipe uses simple ingredients and features a tangy ketchup-based glaze.
Author:Stella Harper
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:65 min
Total Time:80 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 cup dry bread crumbs (or Stove Top Stuffing mix)
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup ketchup (for the mix)
For the Glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup
For the Glaze: 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Glaze: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk. Let stand for 5 minutes to soften the crumbs.
Add the ground beef, egg, onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup ketchup to the bowl.
Mix all ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Shape the mixture into a loaf shape (about 9×5 inches) and place it on the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For an extra moist loaf, place the loaf pan on top of a shallow baking dish filled with about an inch of water (a water bath).
If you prefer a crustier exterior, skip the loaf pan and bake directly on a baking sheet.
You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add 10 minutes to the total cook time if baking directly from cold.