introduction
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that warms the heart and fills the stomach. It’s often associated with family dinners and cozy evenings at home. This ultimate best meatloaf recipe ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and moisture. It’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week!
why make this recipe
There are plenty of reasons to try this meatloaf recipe. First, it’s simple and uses common ingredients, making it easy to prepare. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite herbs or spices. Plus, meatloaf is a great way to use ground beef, and leftovers can be enjoyed in sandwiches or as part of another meal. Overall, this meatloaf is satisfying and delicious!
how to make Ultimate Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 90% lean)
- 1 cup yellow onion (finely diced)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup milk
- 3 teaspoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¾ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (for glaze)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350℉ and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the ground beef, diced onion, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian breadcrumbs, milk, chopped parsley, salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything well to combine and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, combine the glaze ingredients (1 cup ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper) in a small bowl and mix well.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160˚F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before serving.
how to serve Ultimate Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm with your favorite side dishes. Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad make great companions. You can also top each slice with a little extra ketchup if desired.
how to store Ultimate Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever
To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. The meatloaf can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Ultimate Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever
- Use lean ground beef (85% or 90%) so that the meatloaf stays moist but not too greasy.
- Let the meat mixture rest after mixing to help the flavors blend.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Experiment with different herbs or cheese to personalize the recipe.
variation (if any)
You can make a turkey or chicken meatloaf instead of using beef. Just substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of ground turkey or chicken and follow the same directions. You could also add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
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Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture, shape it into a loaf, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
-
Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?
- Yes! Once cooked, let it cool down completely, then wrap it tightly to freeze. It can be kept frozen for about 3 months.
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What should I serve with meatloaf?
- Meatloaf goes great with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or a fresh salad. Choose sides that complement the rich flavors!
With this ultimate best meatloaf recipe, you will always have a delicious meal ready to please your family and friends! Enjoy cooking!
Ultimate Best Meatloaf
Ingredients
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 90% lean) Lean ground beef keeps the meatloaf moist.
- 1 cup yellow onion (finely diced)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup milk
- 3 teaspoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Glaze Ingredients
- ¾ cup ketchup For topping.
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (for glaze)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for glaze)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350℉ and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the ground beef, diced onion, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian breadcrumbs, milk, chopped parsley, salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything well to combine and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Baking
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, combine the glaze ingredients in a small bowl and mix well.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160˚F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before serving.
