This Classic Homemade Meatloaf is a comforting and hearty dish made with simple ingredients that bring back nostalgic flavors. The tender and juicy loaf is perfectly seasoned and topped with a savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this meatloaf offers a balance of protein and flavor that everyone will enjoy. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, this timeless recipe is a must-have in every home cook’s collection.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently with hands or a spoon until fully combined—do not overmix to avoid toughness.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze. Spread half of it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze over the top. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute
