Description
This fail-proof Classic Juicy Meatloaf is the answer to every dry, crumbly, or bland meatloaf you’ve suffered through. Featuring the perfect meat blend, a rich sautéed flavor base, and just the right amount of binder, this recipe turns comfort food into a reliable dinner winner. Moist, tender, and bursting with savory flavor—this is the meatloaf you’ll actually crave.
Ingredients
-
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
-
1 medium onion, finely diced
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
1/2 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
-
2 large eggs
-
3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
-
1/3 cup whole milk
-
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-
1 1/2 tsp salt
-
1 tsp black pepper
-
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the glaze:
-
1/3 cup ketchup
-
2 tbsp brown sugar
-
1 tsp Dijon mustard
-
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
-
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and let cool.
-
In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2 minutes to soak.
-
Add cooled vegetables, ground meat, parsley, eggs, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
-
Using your hands or a silicone spatula, gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
-
Shape the mixture into a loaf, about 2–3 inches high, on the prepared baking sheet. Do not press too tightly.
-
In a small bowl, mix glaze ingredients. Set aside.
-
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes. Then, brush the top with glaze and return to oven for 15–20 more minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
-
Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
-
Don’t skip the sauté—raw aromatics can overpower the dish.
-
For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with rolled oats or gluten-free crackers.
-
Want extra flavor? Add 1 tsp of Italian seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
-
Leftovers make excellent meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: DINNER
- Method: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 8 slices)
- Calories: ~360 kcal
- Sugar: ~5g
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~24g