Classic American Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 medium medium onion (finely chopped to about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic cloves (minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing onions and garlic)
• 2 pounds ground beef (90/10) (lean ground beef for best texture)
• 2 large large eggs (helps bind the meatloaf)
• 1 teaspoon salt (divided; half for onions, half for meat mixture)
• 1/3 cup milk (moistens the meat mixture)
• 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs (for texture; gluten-free panko can be used)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or substitute with thyme, rosemary, or fresh herbs)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami flavor)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (mixed into meat mixture)
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
• 6 tablespoons ketchup (for sauce glaze)
• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar (for sauce glaze)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for sauce glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Onions

   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Finely chop one medium onion to yield about 1 cup. Mince or press three cloves of garlic. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 350°F

2. Sauté Onions and Garlic

   Add the chopped onions to the hot oil, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. If onions start to brown too quickly, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan and steam them. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and transfer onions and garlic to a large bowl to cool until just warm, about 15 minutes. You may refrigerate to speed cooling.

   Time: PT20M

3. Combine Meatloaf Ingredients

   Once onions are warm, add 2 pounds of 90/10 ground beef, 2 large eggs, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/3 cup milk, 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons ketchup, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to the bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly using clean hands or a spoon until just combined, breaking up clumps but avoiding overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

   Time: PT10M

4. Shape Meatloaf

   Line a sheet pan with foil and lightly oil it to prevent sticking. Transfer the meat mixture onto the pan and shape into an 8x4 inch loaf about 2 inches tall. Wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier. Alternatively, use a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan to shape and bake.

   Time: PT5M

5. Bake Initial Meatloaf

   Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 30 minutes while you prepare the glaze sauce.

   Time: PT30M

   Temperature: 350°F

6. Prepare Glaze Sauce

   In a small bowl, mix 6 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Optionally, add 1 teaspoon onion powder or garlic powder to customize flavor. Set aside.

   Time: PT5M

7. Glaze and Finish Baking

   Remove meatloaf from oven after 30 minutes. Brush half of the glaze sauce evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

   Time: PT25M

   Temperature: 350°F

8. Rest and Serve

   Remove meatloaf from oven and transfer to a serving dish. Let rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with remaining glaze sauce on the side or drizzled on top.

   Time: PT10M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Protein

28g

Carbohydrates

15g

Fat

20g

Fiber

1g