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Everyday Dishes

Classic Meatloaf

6 - 8
American Baking

Looking for an easy and delicious dinner that everyone will enjoy? This classic meatloaf recipe is your answer! It's simple to make, adaptable to your preferences, and always a crowd-pleaser. We'll show you how to make a flavorful meatloaf from scratch, with tips and variations to customize it to your...

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Chef Jeff Chef Jeff Cool Cook
January 15, 2025
Classic Meatloaf with glaze on the platter with beans and mashed potatoes, side shot, black background
  • 70 min.
  • 70 min.
  • 1/5
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Ingredients:

Meatloaf:

Optional Glaze:

Tools:

Recipes

Best served with:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Bacon-Wrapped Beans
Oven-Roasted Potato Wedges

Directions:

1. Get Started:

Let’s start preparing a Classic Meatloaf.

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Lightly grease a 9 x 5inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Meatloaf:

  • Soak Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk. This helps keep the meatloaf moist.
  • Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together by hand the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Shape and Bake:

  • Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Alternatively, you can shape it into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet for a free-form meatloaf with more crust.
  • Initial Bake: Bake for 45 minutes.

4. Optionally Make the Glaze:

  • While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients in a small saucepan.
  • Simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

5. Glaze and Finish the Classic Meatloaf:

  • After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. If you like, carefully drain off any excess grease that may have accumulated.
  • Brush the top of the meatloaf with the glaze.
  • Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and Serve the Classic Meatloaf:

  • Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

Tips and Variations:

  • Add Veggies: Finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a kick.
  • Cheese Please: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese for a cheesy meatloaf.
  • Bacon Makes Everything Better: Wrap the meatloaf in bacon slices before baking for extra flavor and a crispy exterior.
  • BBQ Meatloaf: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup in the meat mixture and glaze.
  • Italian Meatloaf: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 TSP Italian seasoning, and substitute the ketchup in the meat mixture with 1/4 cup of tomato sauce or marinara.
  • Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Use 93% lean or leaner to prevent dryness, and consider adding an extra egg to help bind it together.
  • Muffin Tin Meatloaves: Divide the meat mixture into muffin tins for individual servings. Reduce the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes.
Kitchen Guide

Ground Beef Meat

The USDA minimum safe internal temperature is 160°F.

Popular serving temperatures:

  • 120 – 130°F – Rare
  • 130 – 140°F – Medium Rare
  • 140 – 150°F – Medium (most popular, especially by chefs)
  • 150 – 160°F – Medium Well
  • 160°F and more – Well Done
Read More
Food & Ingredients

Types of Ground Beef Meat

May 26, 2024

Ground Beef Meat, the humble staple in kitchens across the country, boasts a surprising variety when it comes to its lean-to-fat ratio. This seemingly simple percentage can drastically change the flavor, texture, and ideal uses of this versatile ingredient. Let’s delve into the world of ground beef subcategories and what they mean for your cooking endeavors.

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Tom the Chef Tom the Chef Founder
About the Author:
Chef JeffCool Cook
# 6
  • Published Recipes: 19
  • Av. Recipe Evaluation:
  • Location: Florida, USA
  • Member since: 2024-09-15
Profile & Recipes

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