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The Best Meatloaf Recipe

The Best Meatloaf Recipe for Ultimate Comfort and Flavor

The Best Meatloaf Recipe brings ultimate comfort and flavor to your dinner table with a savory, high-protein delight that's easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
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
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Opt for 80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • 1 medium onion Adds depth of flavor; shallots can be a tasty substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon butter Used for sautéing onions; olive oil works as a swap.
  • 2 large eggs Binds everything together; flax eggs for a vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup milk Keeps the mixture moist; almond milk is a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs Provides structure; panko is a great substitute.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup/chili sauce Essential for flavor and the zesty topping.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Delivers a lovely herb flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley Enhances taste and presentation; dried can be used.
  • to taste kosher salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste black pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Topping
  • 1/4 cup chili sauce Adds a tangy glaze.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Pan
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking pan with aluminum foil, lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat, add the diced onion, and sauté until translucent and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1 cup of Italian breadcrumbs; stir until blended and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Add the cooled onions to the breadcrumb mixture, then incorporate 1 pound of ground beef, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons of parsley, and salt and pepper.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 2 inches thick and place it into the prepared baking pan.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, then brush chili sauce mixed with ketchup on top.
  7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, avoid overmixing to maintain the meatloaf’s texture. Experiment with different topping sauces for unique flavors.

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