Description
Comfort classics reach new heights with this classic meatloaf recipe that melds hearty ground beef, savory seasonings, and a tangy glaze. Generations of home cooks have perfected this simple yet satisfying dish that promises warmth and nostalgia with each delectable slice, bringing you straight to grandma’s kitchen table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) lean ground beef
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/3 cup milk, broth, or water
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup diced onion
Seasoning and Glaze Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking environment by heating the oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with aluminum foil to simplify post-cooking cleanup.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef with onions, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, tomato paste, and seasonings, gently blending ingredients to maintain a light texture.
- Carefully mold the meat mixture into a cohesive loaf shape directly on the foil-lined baking sheet, ensuring an even distribution and smooth surface.
- Transfer the formed loaf to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes, allowing the meat to develop initial flavor and structure.
- While the meatloaf roasts, quickly whisk together ketchup and white vinegar to create a tangy glaze that will enhance the final presentation and taste.
- Remove the partially cooked meatloaf from the oven and generously coat the entire surface with the prepared glaze, then return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- After removing from the oven, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes, which helps redistribute internal juices and ensures a moist, flavorful result when slicing.
Notes
- Customize the meat blend by mixing ground beef with ground pork or turkey for enhanced flavor and lighter texture.
- Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Add finely grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini to boost nutritional value and keep the meatloaf moist without changing the core taste.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, ensuring the internal temperature hits exactly 160°F for food safety without overcooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg