Savory Classic Meatloaf Ground Beef Recipe for Comfort

Nothing beats the aroma of a Classic Meatloaf Ground Beef wafting through the house. Imagine your family gathering around the dining table, eagerly awaiting that first slice, the anticipation palpable as the savory scent envelops you. The rich, meaty flavor mixed with herbs and spices makes your taste buds dance in delight, while the comforting texture brings back memories of cozy dinners at home.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an emotional hug on a plate. Picture yourself enjoying this hearty classic on a chilly evening, perhaps while reminiscing about childhood dinners or sharing stories with friends. Classic Meatloaf Ground Beef is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals, creating unforgettable moments with every delicious bite.

One time, I made this meatloaf for my family, and they practically fought over the last piece! It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor—80/20 ratio is ideal for moisture without being greasy.

• Breadcrumbs: Lightly seasoned breadcrumbs help bind everything together; I prefer using plain for maximum flavor control.

• Onion: Fresh onions add moisture and sweetness; finely chop them for even distribution throughout the meatloaf.

• Eggs: Eggs act as a binder; use fresh eggs to enhance texture and flavor.

• Ketchup: A classic ingredient that adds sweetness and tang; I like to drizzle extra on top before baking.

• Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds depth to the meatloaf; just a splash can elevate the flavors significantly.

• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder infuses an aromatic kick without overpowering other flavors.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all ingredients’ natural flavors—don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Meatloaf Ground Beef

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures an evenly cooked meatloaf with a nice crust.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking dish with nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier later.

Mix Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended but avoid over-mixing.

Shape Into Loaf: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s even on all sides to ensure uniform cooking.

Add Topping: Drizzle additional ketchup on top of your meatloaf for added flavor and an attractive glaze while baking—who doesn’t love more ketchup?

Bake Until Done: Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Enjoy watching it transform into a golden-brown masterpiece!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the meat and other ingredients in a bowl. Shape into a loaf and bake it at 350°F for about an hour. This method ensures even cooking and a juicy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add in vegetables like bell peppers. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can bring out rich flavors that will impress everyone.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 300°F until warmed through to keep it moist.

Sharing my first attempt at making classic meatloaf ground beef was a disaster, but it turned into a family laugh fest! The key lesson? Never forget to check if you have all the ingredients before diving in.

FAQ

Can I use lean ground beef for classic meatloaf ground beef?

Yes, lean ground beef works, but it may result in drier meatloaf.

How long does classic meatloaf ground beef last in the fridge?

It lasts about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze classic meatloaf ground beef?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and store it for up to three months for best results.

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Classic Meatloaf Ground Beef

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Classic Meatloaf Ground Beef is a nostalgic, heartwarming dish that brings families together around the dinner table. With its savory flavor and tender texture, this classic recipe is perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. The rich aroma of meatloaf baking fills your home, making it an irresistible comfort food choice. Enjoy it hot with mashed potatoes or as a delicious cold sandwich the next day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
4. Drizzle additional ketchup on top for added flavor.
5. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg