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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
