Ina Garten’s Meatloaf 

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:

Ingredients

• 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

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 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.

3. Add Liquids: Remove the pan from heat and stir in Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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).

7. 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.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• 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