Classic Meatloaf Recipe: Just Like Mom Made (Print Version)

Classic Meatloaf Recipe, just like Mom's. Recreate that comforting taste of home with my easy, heartfelt meatloaf, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 75 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 95 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Contains Meat

# Ingredients:

→ The Heart of It All

01 - 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
02 - 1 large yellow onion, finely diced

→ Flavor Builders

03 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
05 - 1/2 cup ketchup (divided)
06 - 1 tbsp tomato paste
07 - 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for glaze)

→ The Binder & Seasoning

08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
10 - 1/4 cup whole milk
11 - 1 tsp salt
12 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Fresh & Final Touches

13 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get that onion and garlic finely diced. I mean * finely*. Big chunks are a no-go in my book. I usually grab my trusty mini food processor for this because, honestly, my eyes can't handle all that onion chopping anymore without tearing up! It’s all about building that flavor base, and these aromatics are truly the unsung heroes of this Classic Meatloaf Recipe. Don't rush this step; good flavor starts here.
02 - In a big bowl, combine your ground beef with the diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup of the ketchup, eggs, Panko breadcrumbs, and milk. Now, this is where it gets a little messy, but in a good way! I always dive in with my clean hands. Honestly, using a spoon just doesn't get everything incorporated as well. Mix it until it's just combined, but don't overmix, or your Classic Meatloaf Recipe can get tough.
03 - Add your salt and freshly ground black pepper to the meat mixture. This is crucial! I usually take a tiny pinch of the raw mixture and microwave it for about 10 seconds to taste for seasoning. It sounds a little odd, but it helps ensure your Classic Meatloaf Recipe isn't bland. Adjust as needed; remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
04 - Gently shape the mixture into an oblong loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet. I like to make it about 9x5 inches, kinda like a bread loaf. Don't pack it too tightly; you want some air in there for a tender result. I've definitely made it too dense before, and it was like a brick! Keep it relaxed for the best Classic Meatloaf Recipe texture.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/4 cup ketchup, tomato paste, and brown sugar (if using). This topping is *everything*. It caramelizes beautifully in the oven and adds that signature tang and sweetness. I sometimes add a tiny dash of apple cider vinegar here too, just for an extra zing. It's the crown jewel of this Classic Meatloaf Recipe.
06 - Pop your formed loaf into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, then pull it out and slather that glorious topping all over it. Return it to the oven for another 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Honestly, the smell filling your kitchen at this point is pure bliss.
07 - This is the hardest part, but so important! Let that beautiful Classic Meatloaf Recipe rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful slice every time. I've cut into it too soon, and all the delicious juices just ran out. Don't make my mistake! Then, slice it thick and serve it up.

# Notes:

01 - Don't overmix the meat, seriously! It'll make your meatloaf tough and nobody wants that. Mix just until combined.
02 - Leftovers are even better the next day, but store slices separately from any extra sauce for best texture.
03 - No Panko? Regular breadcrumbs work, but you might need a tiny bit less milk. I've even used crushed Ritz crackers once, and it was surprisingly good!
04 - Serve it with a dollop of extra glaze and some mashed potatoes, maybe a green bean casserole, for the ultimate comfort meal.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large mixing bowl
02 - baking sheet
03 - aluminum foil
04 - small bowl
05 - whisk
06 - instant-read thermometer

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 450-550
Total Fat: 25-35g
Total Carbohydrate: 25-35g
Protein: 35-45g

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