The secret to a juicy and flavorful meatloaf lies in the balance of moisture and seasoning. The combination of eggs, milk, and bread crumbs helps bind the meat while keeping it tender, and the Worcestershire sauce adds a deep umami note that complements the sweetness of the ketchup glaze. The glaze itself, a perfect blend of tangy ketchup, rich brown sugar, and a touch of mustard, caramelizes in the oven, forming a sticky-sweet topping that makes every slice irresistible. Paired with aromatic herbs like thyme and parsley, each bite of this meatloaf is packed with hearty flavors, making it a comforting classic that never disappoints.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup ketchup (divided)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for added tang)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, bread crumbs, eggs, and milk. Add 1/4 cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, thyme, and paprika if using. Mix everything together using your hands or a large spoon until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Press it down gently to ensure even cooking.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard if using. Stir well to form a smooth glaze.
- Apply the glaze: Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist. Slice and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
- Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute part of the ground beef with ground pork or veal.
- To avoid a soggy meatloaf, ensure your loaf pan isn’t overpacked, and consider using a rack or broiler pan for excess fat drainage.
- For an extra touch of indulgence, add shredded cheese to the meat mixture!
