Yields: 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and tomato paste. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, egg, bread crumbs, salt, onion powder, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix with your hands until thoroughly combined, but avoid overmixing.
- Form the loaf: Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
- Initial bake: Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Drain excess grease: Carefully tilt the pan to drain any excess grease, using a spatula to hold back the meatloaf if necessary.
- Add sauce: Pour 3/4 of the sauce over the top of the meatloaf, spreading evenly. Reserve the remaining sauce.
- Finish baking: Return the loaf to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F (71 degrees C).
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Drizzle the remaining sauce over individual slices when serving.
Tips:
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf can make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your meatloaf is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160 degrees F (71 degrees C).
- Customize it: Add a little of your favorite flavors to the meatloaf mixture, such as chopped green bell pepper or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Enjoy your delicious Boston Market-inspired meatloaf!
