Classic Meatloaf 

This timeless meatloaf combines seasoned ground beef with a tangy glaze, delivering a hearty and satisfying meal that's excellent for family dinners. It's moist, flavorful, and easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (90% lean)

• ¾ cup dried bread crumbs

• ½ cup diced yellow onion

• ½ cup milk

• 1 large egg, beaten

• ½ cup ketchup

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon dried parsley leaves

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Topping:

• ½ cup ketchup

• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

 Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, diced onion, milk, beaten egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

3. Shape and Place in Pan: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, pressing it down to form an even layer.

4. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 55 minutes.

6. Rest Before Serving: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 8-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes slicing easier.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 276 kcal

• Total Fat: 8.9 g

• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g

• Cholesterol: 115 mg

• Sodium: 630 mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 19 g

• Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sugars: 8.4 g

• Protein: 28 g

• Iron: 3.5 mg

• Calcium: 33.1 mg

• Zinc: 6.6 mg

Tips & Variations

• Cheese-Stuffed: Add a layer of your favorite cheese in the center of the meat mixture before baking.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the meat mixture.

• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for added flavor.

• Vegetable Boost: Add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra nutrition.

 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual slices on medium power until hot.