Classic Beef Meatloaf Recipe | Easy & Delicious Comfort Food

## Classic Beef Meatloaf Recipe: A Comfort Food Staple

If you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table, look no further than this classic **beef meatloaf recipe**. Meatloaf is a timeless dish that has graced family tables for generations, and for good reason. It’s easy to customize, budget-friendly, and delivers comforting flavors that everyone loves.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make a juicy and flavorful beef meatloaf with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a weekend family gathering, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

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## Why This Beef Meatloaf Recipe Works

What makes this recipe stand out is the perfect balance of lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, aromatic vegetables, and a tangy tomato glaze that caramelizes beautifully on top. The secret to moisture lies in the right combination of ingredients and careful cooking time to ensure the meatloaf stays juicy without drying out.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile — you can add your favorite herbs, swap beef for turkey, or even incorporate veggies to boost nutrition.

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## Ingredients You’ll Need

– **1 ½ pounds lean ground beef** (80/20 blend recommended for flavor and moisture)
– **1 cup breadcrumbs** (plain or seasoned)
– **1 medium onion, finely chopped**
– **2 cloves garlic, minced**
– **2 large eggs**
– **½ cup milk**
– **2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce**
– **1 tbsp Dijon mustard**
– **1 tsp salt**
– **½ tsp black pepper**
– **1 tsp dried oregano**
– **1 tsp dried thyme**
– **½ cup ketchup** (for glaze)
– **2 tbsp brown sugar** (for glaze)
– **1 tbsp apple cider vinegar** (for glaze)

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## Step-by-Step Instructions

### 1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

### 2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

### 3. Shape and Place in Pan
Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press gently to create an even surface.

### 4. Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Brush half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

### 5. Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Then, brush the remaining glaze over the top and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

### 6. Rest Before Serving
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every bite juicy.

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## Tips for the Perfect Beef Meatloaf

– **Don’t skip the rest time:** Resting is key for juicy slices that hold together well.
– **Use a meat thermometer:** To avoid overcooked or undercooked meatloaf, check for an internal temperature of 160°F.
– **Add veggies:** Grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can boost nutrition and add moisture.
– **Make it ahead:** Meatloaf can be made a day in advance and reheated, making it great for meal prep.

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## Serving Suggestions

Beef meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh garden salad. For a comforting meal, drizzle some pan gravy or extra ketchup on the side.

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## Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

– Calories: ~350
– Protein: 28g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fiber: 1g

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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

### 1. Can I freeze beef meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze cooked meatloaf slices or the entire loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

### 2. What’s the best ground beef for meatloaf?
An 80/20 (lean to fat) ground beef blend is ideal. It provides enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist without being greasy.

### 3. Can I make meatloaf without eggs?
Yes, eggs act as a binder, but you can substitute with flax eggs or breadcrumbs soaked in milk if you need an egg-free version.

### 4. How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C) to be safe to eat.

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## Additional Resources

For more kitchen tips and recipes, check out [Serious Eats](https://www.seriouseats.com) for their deep dive into meatloaf science. For food safety guidelines, visit the USDA’s official site: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/.

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# Conclusion

This **beef meatloaf recipe** is a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and universally loved. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll create a juicy, flavorful meatloaf perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish will not disappoint. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!

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*Happy cooking!*