Classic Meatloaf
A comforting classic meatloaf recipe that combines extra-lean ground beef with savory ingredients, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and ketchup mixture for a moist and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 2 lb extra-lean ground beef Use truly extra-lean beef to avoid excess fat.
- 1 tbsp butter For sautéing onions and garlic.
- 1/4 cup minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic Minced.
- 1 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 1/2 tsp black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 3 slices toasted bread Crumble before adding.
- 7 crackers crushed buttery crackers For added moisture.
- 1 large egg For binding.
- 3 1/2 tbsp sour cream Adds richness.
- 1 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Enhances depth of flavor.
- 1 15-oz can tomato sauce Split for top glaze.
- 1/4 cup milk Optional, for moisture.
- 3 tbsp ketchup For glaze.
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the minced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the ground beef, crumbled toasted bread, crushed crackers, egg, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the tomato sauce. Mix until just combined.
- If the mixture feels dry, add milk until you achieve the desired consistency. The mix should be moist but hold its shape.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, molding into an even shape.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Spread the remaining tomato sauce and ketchup over the meatloaf and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to set the glaze.
Notes
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and green beans. It can also be served as a hearty sandwich or over rice.