Old Fashioned Meatloaf
Old Fashioned Meatloaf is a beloved classic dish that blends simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a tangy tomato glaze to create a hearty, comforting meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this nostalgic recipe offers a balanced flavor and texture profile that satisfies and delights all ages.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative like almond flour)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as parsley or Italian seasoning)
Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup or tomato sauce
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and measure out the milk, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings to ensure everything is ready to combine smoothly.
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs. Mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a baking pan or rimmed sheet, shaping it into a loaf with clean hands. Press gently so it holds together without packing too tightly.
- Add the Glaze: Spread a layer of ketchup or tomato sauce evenly on top of the shaped meatloaf. This adds flavor, moisture, and helps create a shiny, caramelized crust while baking.
- Bake Until Perfect: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the perfect temperature without overcooking.
- Do not overmix the meat; gentle handling keeps the texture tender and fluffy.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to lock in moisture before slicing.
- Customize the glaze by mixing ketchup with brown sugar or mustard for extra flavor variations.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of loaf)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, old fashioned meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef recipe, gluten free meatloaf