Old-Fashioned Meatloaf: A Hearty, Comforting Classic

This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that combines hearty ground beef, tender breadcrumbs, and a savory blend of spices, all topped with a tangy glaze. The result is a dish that is juicy, flavorful, and full of nostalgia. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this meatloaf is sure to impress. Paired with mashed potatoes and green beans, it makes for a wholesome, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  
  

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
  
  

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
  
  

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 2 large eggs
  
  

• 1 cup milk
  
  

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  
  

• 1 teaspoon salt
  
  

• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  
  

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  
  

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  
  

• ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
  
  

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
   
   

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the texture tender.
   
   

3. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it evenly into the pan. Leave some space at the top to allow for cooking.
   
   

4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar for the glaze. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
   
   

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). If using a meat thermometer, this step is crucial for ensuring the meatloaf is fully cooked.
   
   

6. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
   
   

7. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and green beans.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 302 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 40g
  
  

• Protein: 5g
  
  

• Fat: 14g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 6g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 61mg
  
  

• Sodium: 304mg
  
  

• Potassium: 191mg
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 21g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 313 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 3mg
  
  

• Calcium: 26mg
  
  

• Iron: 1mg