Description
This easy meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with onions, bread crumbs, and a tangy ketchup topping for a classic comfort food that's simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners. Ready in just over an hour, it delivers a juicy, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup dried bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients needed for the meatloaf and preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, milk, dried bread crumbs, and egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it to fit the pan smoothly and compactly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and prepared mustard until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Apply Topping: Spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center. To ensure doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center; it should register at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).
- Serve: Once cooked through, remove the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest briefly, then slice and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty, delicious homemade meatloaf!
Notes
- You can use crushed crackers instead of bread crumbs to add a different flavor and texture to the meatloaf.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking to help retain juices before slicing.
- For added moisture, consider adding finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture.
