Description
This classic meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with flavorful ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, fresh parsley, and a tangy ketchup or BBQ sauce glaze. It’s easy to prepare, baked to perfection, and yields a moist and tender meatloaf that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds 80%-90% ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey, or 1 pound ground pork and 1 pound ground beef)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup beef broth (or milk)
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 2–3 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tablespoons ketchup
- 1 1/4 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Glaze
- 2/3 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (or a mix of half and half)
- 2–3 Tablespoons light brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or a 9×5-inch loaf pan with foil and lightly spray it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beef broth, whisked eggs, finely chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender texture—avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it evenly to fill the pan, or shape it into a loaf directly on the baking sheet.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and/or BBQ sauce with the light brown sugar until smooth. Pour this glaze evenly over the top of the formed meatloaf. Optionally, sprinkle additional black pepper on top for extra seasoning.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until an internal meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meat is thoroughly cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier. Then cut into slices and serve.
Notes
- Using a mix of ground beef and pork can add extra moisture and flavor.
- If you prefer a leaner option, swap ground beef for ground turkey.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain its juices.
- Feel free to customize the glaze—mix BBQ sauce and ketchup for a smoky-sweet flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and food safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: meatloaf, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, baked meatloaf, dinner recipe
