The Ultimate Easy Meatloaf Recipe: Delicious, Simple, and Family-Friendly

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, chopped onion, milk, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
3. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press it down and shape it into a loaf, compact but not tightly packed.
4. Make the Glaze: Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake: Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F). Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure doneness.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the meatloaf moist and allows the juices to redistribute.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy

Variations & Substitutions

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the center before baking.
• BBQ Meatloaf: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky twist.
• Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap the loaf with bacon for extra flavor and crunch.
• Italian-Style Meatloaf: Add Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Serve with marinara sauce.

Serving Suggestions