Meatloaf
A classic comfort food dish that is easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for feeding the whole family, with the added bonus of utilizing ground beef along with vegetables and herbs for added flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (approximately 1 cup)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp ketchup
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free bread crumbs)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Sauce Ingredients
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 ½ tsp white vinegar
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Set a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp of olive oil and the chopped onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.
Make the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine all of the meatloaf ingredients. Mix just until everything is well combined. Your hands are the best tool for mixing, so feel free to use disposable gloves if you prefer.
Shape Meatloaf and Bake
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together all of the sauce ingredients until combined.
Add the Glaze
- Spread the sauce over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
To store leftover meatloaf, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and freeze it in individual portions. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For added moisture, you can mix in grated carrots or zucchini. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to change up the flavor.