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Classic Meatloaf

Classic Meatloaf with Savory Glaze for Comforting Family Dinners

Classic Meatloaf is a comforting family favorite, combining ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a sweet-savory glaze.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 pounds Ground beef Choose a blend with some fat for tenderness.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Can substitute with crushed crackers for gluten-free.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Use non-dairy milk for lactose-free.
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Can substitute with shallots for milder taste.
  • 1 medium Green bell pepper, finely chopped Substitute with any colorful bell pepper or omit if preferred.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Can use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1 large Egg A flax egg can be used for a vegan alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust or omit for low-sodium diets.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly cracked provides the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme Omit or replace with Italian seasoning for a different flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Can substitute with fresh oregano if available.
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup Ketchup Use low-sugar ketchup for a healthier option.
  • 1/4 cup Brown sugar Honey or maple syrup can serve as substitutes.
  • 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar Substitute with white vinegar if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Mustard Dijon mustard works well for depth of flavor.

Equipment

  • Loaf pan
  • mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

How to Make Classic Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prep the ingredients by finely chopping the onion and green bell pepper, and mincing the garlic.
  3. Combine in a large mixing bowl the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf, and place it in a loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
  5. Prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard in a small bowl. Reserve half the glaze for later.
  6. Brush the meatloaf with half of the glaze and bake for 1 hour. Brush with the remaining glaze halfway through cooking.
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 24gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

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