classic meatloaf 

This classic meatloaf is one of my favorite ground beef recipes and a go to dish for feeding family and friends. It's moist and tender inside, glazed with a sweet and tangy ketchup sauce. Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Meatloaf

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (you can replace ½ of the beef with pork if you like)

• ½ cup milk

• 2 large eggs

• ¾ cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or dried parsley; plus more for garnishing)

Glaze

• ¾ cup ketchup

• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Sauté aromatics: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove from heat.

3. Prepare meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with ground beef, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.

4. Shape and bake: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and gently press it down until smooth on top. Bake for 40 minutes.

5. Prepare glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, in a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well.

6. Glaze and finish baking: After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spoon the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes, 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. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: Not specified

• Protein: Not specified

• Fat: Not specified

• Carbohydrates: Not specified

• Fiber: Not specified

• Sugar: Not specified