Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a freeform loaf on a baking sheet. Use a nonstick loaf pan for easier cleanup.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for about 60 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Cover with foil during the first half of baking if desired, then uncover for the last 15 minutes for a caramelized crust.
- Brush the top with ketchup mixed with a little brown sugar for a sweet-and-savory glaze. Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like parsley or rosemary.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner presentation.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free optional (use gluten-free breadcrumbs)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/6 of meatloaf)
- Calories: 380 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 125mg