Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 lean works well)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Sauté the Onion: In a small skillet, cook the chopped onion over medium heat until softened and slightly translucent, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, cooled onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients gently until just combined (avoid overmixing).
- Shape and Bake: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.
- Make the Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl to create the glaze.
- Apply Glaze and Finish Baking: After the initial baking time, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F on a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans!
Tips:
- Breadcrumb Substitute: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, quick oats, or even crumbled stale bread.
- Flavor Variations: Add herbs and spices like dried thyme, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Cheese Please! For a cheesy twist, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the meatloaf mixture.
- Keep It Moist: Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough meatloaf. You can also drizzle a little broth over the top if it appears to be drying out while baking.
