easy meatloaf family dinner classic baking addiction

The Ultimate Family Meatloaf: Comfort Food Perfection

Meatloaf. The name alone conjures images of cozy dinners and nostalgic memories. But not all meatloaf is created equal. This recipe is designed to be a family favorite, delivering moistness, flavor, and satisfying comfort every time.

What Makes This Meatloaf Special?

The key to exceptional meatloaf lies in a few crucial elements:

A Blend of Meats: Using a combination of ground beef, pork, and sometimes veal creates a richer, more complex flavor and a more tender texture. Ground beef provides the meaty foundation, while pork adds moisture and richness.
Moisture is Key: Dry meatloaf is a common pitfall. This recipe combats dryness by incorporating bread soaked in milk. The milk-soaked breadcrumbs bind the meat, add moisture, and keep the loaf from becoming dense.
Flavor Powerhouse: Onions and garlic are essential aromatics. Sautéing them briefly before adding them to the meat mixture mellows their sharp flavor and enhances the overall depth. Herbs like parsley and thyme add freshness and complexity. A touch of Worcestershire sauce provides umami and a savory kick.
Tangy Glaze: The glaze is the finishing touch that elevates the meatloaf from good to great. A combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar creates a sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky crust that perfectly complements the savory meat.

The Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

* 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) * 1/2 lb ground pork * 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (made from day-old bread, soaked in 1/2 cup milk) * 1 small onion, finely chopped * 2 cloves garlic, minced * 1 egg, lightly beaten * 1/4 cup ketchup * 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce * 1 tablespoon dried parsley * 1 teaspoon dried thyme * Salt and pepper to taste

Glaze:

* 1/2 cup ketchup * 2 tablespoons brown sugar * 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, milk-soaked breadcrumbs (squeeze out excess milk), sautéed onion and garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape the mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a loaf pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar for the glaze.
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.