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Easy Classic Meatloaf

Easy Classic Meatloaf: Tender, Juicy Comfort for Weeknights

Easy Classic Meatloaf is a tender and juicy dish perfect for weeknight dinners, bringing comfort to the whole family.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 pounds Lean Ground Beef or ground turkey for a lighter twist
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers/gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium Onion finely chopped, or shallots/onion powder
  • 1/2 cup Milk or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free
  • 1 large Beaten Egg or flaxseed meal for vegan option
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce or soy sauce as alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Parsley fresh or dried
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or minced fresh garlic for extra flavor
For the Ketchup Glaze
  • 1 cup Ketchup or barbecue sauce for different flavor
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar or honey/maple syrup as sweetener
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice can be omitted if desired

Equipment

  • Loaf pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix well for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and mold it into a smooth, even shape.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to create the glaze. Spread evenly over the molded meatloaf.
  5. Place the glazed meatloaf in the oven and bake uncovered for about 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 8-10 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or ingredients for a unique twist. Meal prep may include assembling without glaze and refrigerating for easier weeknight meals.

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