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Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Easy Meatloaf Recipe for Comforting Family Dinners

This Easy Meatloaf Recipe is a comforting dish that transforms dinners into cherished occasions, perfect for families and quick meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 lbs Ground Beef (86% lean) Provides structure and flavor; higher fat content yields moister meatloaf.
  • ¾ cup Italian Breadcrumbs Binds the mixture and enhances flavor; use plain breadcrumbs for a milder option.
  • 2 pcs Eggs Binds ingredients and adds richness; fresh large eggs are recommended.
  • 8 oz Tomato Sauce Keeps the meatloaf moist; low-sodium options are available.
  • ½ cup Onion, diced Adds sweetness and moisture; substitutions can include white or sweet onions.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances flavor.
  • ½ tsp Ground Pepper Provides a subtle kick.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Adds depth; can be swapped with oregano or thyme.
For the Glaze
  • ¼ cup Ketchup Provides sweetness and a glossy finish.
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar Increases glaze sweetness for a delightful tangy contrast.
  • ½ tsp Salt Balances the sweetness.

Equipment

  • Broiler pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spray a broiler pan generously with non-stick cooking spray.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, tomato sauce, diced onion, salt, ground pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Divide the mixture into two equal portions and shape each into a loaf, roughly 8x4 inches. Place them on the broiler pan.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
  6. Whisk together the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, and salt. Set aside.
  7. After 1 hour, brush the glaze over each meatloaf and return to oven for an additional 15 minutes to let the glaze caramelize.
  8. Let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 24gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This meatloaf freezes well and can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Resting before slicing helps retain moisture and flavor.

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