Classic Meatloaf

This is the best meatloaf recipe you'll ever try—juicy, tender, and bursting with classic flavors that bring comfort to any dinner table. Made with lean ground beef, simple seasonings, and a delightful zesty topping, this meatloaf is easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Whether served with creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy macaroni, it delivers a nostalgic, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions. The recipe balances moisture and flavor beautifully, thanks to soaked breadcrumbs and sautéed onions, ensuring every bite is tender and full of rich taste. Plus, the signature glaze of chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar caramelizes on top for a sticky, flavorful finish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• ½ medium onion, diced

• 1 teaspoon butter

• 2 eggs

• ¾ cup milk

• ¾ cup Italian bread crumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 recommended)

• 1 tablespoon ketchup or chili sauce

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  
  

For the Meatloaf Sauce:

• ½ cup chili sauce (not spicy, more tangy and less sweet than ketchup)

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

2. In a small pan, melt butter over medium-low heat and sauté the diced onions until tender and translucent. Allow them to cool completely before adding to the mixture.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak and soften, which helps keep the meatloaf moist.

4. Add the lean ground beef, cooled sautéed onions, ketchup or chili sauce, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Gently mix everything together just until combined—avoid overmixing to prevent a dense meatloaf.

5. Form the mixture into an 8x4 inch loaf shape directly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.

6. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping by mixing chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar (if using) in a small bowl. After 40 minutes, spread this sauce evenly over the meatloaf.

7. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For a caramelized finish, broil the meatloaf for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of cooking if desired.

8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout, making the meatloaf easier to slice and more flavorful.
   
   

Nutrients

Each serving of this meatloaf (based on 8 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 403

• Carbohydrates: 21g

• Protein: 23g

• Fat: 25g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 11g

• Trans Fat: 1g

• Cholesterol: 110mg

• Sodium: 633mg

• Potassium: 511mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 11g

• Vitamin A: 411 IU

• Vitamin C: 6mg

• Calcium: 88mg

• Iron: 3mg