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Moist Meatloaf Recipe

Ultimate Moist Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet Ketchup Glaze

This Moist Meatloaf Recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a luscious sweet ketchup glaze.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides aromatic flavor when sautéed; can use red onion for a different taste.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20) Main protein; this fat content ensures moisture, or swap with ground turkey for a leaner version.
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs Binds the meat mixture together; panko can be used for a lighter texture.
  • 2 large Eggs Acts as a binding agent; essential for the structure of your moist meatloaf recipe.
  • ½ cup Whole Milk Adds creaminess and moisture; can be substituted with beef broth for added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt For seasoning to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper For seasoning to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Provides depth of flavor; fresh herbs can be used instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Provides depth of flavor; fresh herbs can be used instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Provides depth of flavor; fresh herbs can be used instead.
  • ½ cup Ketchup Used in the meat mixture and for glazing; gives sweetness and moisture, or substitute with BBQ sauce for a different finish.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds umami flavor; can swap with soy sauce.
For the Glaze
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley For garnish and a pop of freshness; omit if unavailable.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Sweetens the glaze; can replace with honey or maple syrup.

Equipment

  • Medium skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Half-sheet pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Moist Meatloaf Recipe
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a half-sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add one finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for approximately 10 minutes until tender and golden brown.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 cup of bread crumbs, 2 beaten eggs, and ½ cup of whole milk, along with the sautéed onions. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything gently until just combined.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared sheet pan and shape it into a loaf, approximately 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of ketchup and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until well blended, then spoon the glaze over the meatloaf.
  6. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and cover it with foil. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). In the last 10-15 minutes of baking, remove the foil.
  7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best results, cook a small patty from the mixture to adjust seasoning. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness, and use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

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