Easy Weeknight Meatloaf
This easy weeknight meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food, perfect for a satisfying family dinner. It features a tender, flavorful meatloaf topped with a tangy, sweet glaze.
Equipment
- loaf pan
- large bowl
- small bowl
- meat thermometer
- whisk
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (80/20 works great for flavor)
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (for meatloaf)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or a small baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into an even loaf.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard for the glaze.
Cooking
- Pour about half of the glaze over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly, and reserve the remaining glaze.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Brush the remaining glaze over the top during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a nice finish.
Rest & Serve
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can sauté the chopped onion before adding it to the meat mixture. This recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.