Print

Classic Beef Meatloaf Recipe with Easy Ketchup Glaze for Comfort Food Fans

classic beef meatloaf - featured image

A juicy and tender classic beef meatloaf topped with a tangy-sweet ketchup glaze, perfect for cozy dinners and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 cup (90 grams) plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes until mushy.
  3. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 9×5 inches and 3 inches high on a parchment-lined baking sheet or loaf pan.
  6. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  7. Spread half of the ketchup glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes. Tent with foil if glaze darkens too much.
  9. Remove from oven and spread the remaining glaze on top.
  10. Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes.
  11. Check doneness with a thermometer (160°F internal temperature) or ensure juices run clear.
  12. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for moisture. Apply ketchup glaze in two layers for a sticky, caramelized crust. Let meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices. Use a meat thermometer for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef meatloaf, classic meatloaf, ketchup glaze, comfort food, easy meatloaf recipe, family dinner, weeknight meal