Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

This Best Classic Meatloaf recipe brings together comforting flavors and simple ingredients for a hearty meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. lean ground beef
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp yellow mustard

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil and coat it with non-stick spray, then set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onion, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix with clean hands until fully combined.
3. Step 3: Shape the mixture into an 8″ x 4″ loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes. Then remove it from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Spread this topping evenly over the meatloaf.
6. Step 6: Return the meatloaf to the oven and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F in the center.
7. Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, add ¼ cup of milk or a bit of grated cheese into the meat mixture.
• Swap out Italian breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats for a different texture.
• For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder to the mix.
• Make mini meatloaves by dividing the mixture into muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven to retain moisture. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. You may want to add a bit of extra moisture like an egg or some broth since turkey is leaner than beef.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F in the center, your meatloaf is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 51 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Best Classic Meatloaf recipe combines lean ground beef with Italian breadcrumbs, aromatic spices, and a tangy BBQ ketchup glaze. Baked to perfection, it offers a moist, flavorful centerpiece for any meal, topped with a delicious sweet and tangy sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf

• 2 lbs. lean ground beef
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup onion (diced)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper

Topping

• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp yellow mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and coat it lightly with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onion, garlic powder, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands to mix everything thoroughly until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat.
3. Shape the meatloaf: Press the meat mixture evenly into an 8-inch by 4-inch loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it is compact and uniform for even cooking.
4. Bake initial meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This initial baking cooks the meat through before adding the topping.
5. Prepare oven and topping: After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). While the oven heats, whisk together the BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to create the glaze.
6. Apply topping and continue baking: Spread the sauce mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F (71 degrees C), and the topping is caramelized and bubbly.
7. Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy your classic meatloaf!

Notes

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and prevent greasy meatloaf.
• Ensure not to overmix the meat, as this can result in a dense texture.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps maintain moistness.
• You can add a little Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Check doneness with a meat thermometer for food safety and best results.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: classic meatloaf, meatloaf recipe, homemade meatloaf, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef recipe, baked meatloaf