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Classic Simple Sunday Meatloaf

This classic meatloaf brings warmth and familiarity to any Sunday dinner, packed with ground beef, savory onions, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 416 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 3 lb ground beef (80/20) Provides flavor and moisture.
  • 2 cups diced yellow onion Cook until softened and translucent.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Adds structure to the meatloaf.
  • 3 beaten eggs Acts as a binder.
  • ½ cup whole milk Adds moisture.
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Enhances flavor.
  • 1½ cups ketchup (for mixture) Keeps the meatloaf moist.
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor.
  • 3 tbsp chopped parsley For freshness.

Glaze Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar Adds sweetness.
  • ¾ cup ketchup For the glaze.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly oil a baking sheet covered with foil.
  • In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onions and cook for about 10 minutes until they are softened and translucent.

Mixing and Shaping

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened onions with the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley.
  • Mix everything until just combined, taking care not to over-mix.
  • Shape the meat mixture into a long loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Glazing and Baking

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and ketchup for the glaze, and spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  • Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for approximately 45–60 minutes, uncovering it for the final 10–15 minutes for a nicely browned top.
  • Ensure it's cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Resting

  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest covered lightly with foil for about 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or salad. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches.
Keyword Classic Recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, Meatloaf