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The Best Ultra-Juicy Classic Beef Meatloaf with Tangy Ketchup Glaze

Close-up of two thick slices of juicy meatloaf topped with a bright red, glossy glaze.
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Make this classic beef meatloaf recipe for a juicy, tender, and flavorful dinner. It uses simple ingredients and a tangy ketchup glaze, making it an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup dry breadcrumbs (or Stove Top Stuffing)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for the glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for free-form baking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the milk and breadcrumbs. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak up the liquid; this is key for a moist meatloaf.
  3. Add the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley to the bowl with the soaked breadcrumbs.
  4. Mix all ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape (about 9×5 inches) and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
  7. Spread half of the glaze mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  9. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For extra moisture, substitute half the milk with beef broth.
  • If you prefer a free-form loaf, place it on a foil-lined baking sheet and place a rimmed baking sheet underneath to catch any drippings.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this prevents overcooking, which causes dryness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/best-juicy-classic-meatloaf-recipe/