Ina Garten’s meatloaf is a comforting classic that combines simplicity with rich flavors. By sautéing onions with fresh thyme and incorporating ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, this meatloaf achieves a moist and tender texture. Baked on a sheet pan, it develops a beautifully caramelized crust, making it a standout dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Full Recipe:
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (about 3 medium onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81% lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup
Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Sauté Onions: In a medium sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add chopped onions, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until onions are translucent but not browned.
Add Liquids: Remove the pan from heat and stir in Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Combine Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine ground chuck, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and the cooled onion mixture. Mix lightly with your hands or a fork until just combined; avoid overmixing to prevent a dense loaf.
Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a rectangular loaf approximately 4 to 5 inches wide and 3 inches high.
Glaze and Bake: Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1¼ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes slicing easier.
Calories: 384 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Cholesterol: 189 mg
Sodium: 760 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 21 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 9 g
Protein: 46 g