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Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe

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This best classic meatloaf recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Try it with our tangy glaze!

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 2 pounds (900 g) lean ground beef
  • 2 eggs, whisked
  • ½ cup quick oats
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup ketchup
  • ⅓ cup onion, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Coles Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and prep the pan
    Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a wire rack with aluminum foil and place it over a baking sheet. This setup helps the heat distribute evenly and keeps your meatloaf’s texture just right.
  2. Mix the glaze
    In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Set it aside—you’ll use this sweet and tangy glaze both during and after baking.
  3. Combine the meatloaf mixture
    In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, eggs, quick oats, milk, ketchup, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  4. Shape the loaf
    Place the meat mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and gently shape it into a loaf, about 9×5 inches.
  5. First glaze application
    Spread half of your glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. This first layer bakes into the meat, adding flavor and moisture.
  6. Bake the meatloaf
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, take it out and spread the remaining glaze over the top and sides for that irresistible sticky finish. Return to the oven and bake for another 35-45 minutes, or until a thermometer reads 160°F in the center.
  7. Rest and serve
    Let the meatloaf rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your meatloaf perfectly moist.

Notes

This recipe makes enough for about 6-8 servings, but you can easily adjust it. For a smaller loaf, halve the ingredients and reduce the cooking time slightly. For a larger crowd, double the recipe and split it into two loaves to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the internal temperature—it’s the best way to tell when your meatloaf is done.

  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 75 minutes
  • Category: Dinner