Name: Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean); 1 medium onion (1 cup), finely chopped; 1 tsp olive oil; 2 large eggs; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 Tbsp ketchup; 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free bread crumbs); 1/3 cup milk; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 3/4 cup ketchup; 1 ½ tsp white vinegar; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)

1 medium onion (about 1 cup), finely chopped

1 tsp olive oil

2 large eggs

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 Tbsp ketchup

3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free bread crumbs)

1/3 cup milk

1 tsp salt (or to taste)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

3/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)

1 ½ tsp white vinegar

2 Tbsp brown sugar

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooled onions, eggs, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons ketchup, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, using your hands or a spoon.

Step 4: Shape the mixture into a loaf approximately 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall on the prepared baking sheet. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.

Step 5: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.

Step 6: After the initial 40 minutes, spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer.

Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and makes serving easier.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, swap half the ground beef for ground pork or turkey.

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten intolerance.

Add finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Replace ketchup glaze with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork depending on your preference. Just be mindful that leaner meats may yield a drier meatloaf, so you might want to add a bit more moisture like an extra egg or milk.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?

Using breadcrumbs and eggs helps bind the ingredients together. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can make it dense and tough. Letting the meatloaf rest after baking also helps it hold its shape when slicing.