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–+ servings
Traditional Meatloaf

Grandmas Easy Meatloaf Recipe

This traditional meatloaf recipe is tender, juicy, and full of classic homemade flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients and topped with a sweet and savory glaze, it’s the kind of comforting dinner grandma used to make for the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large egg
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup minced onion
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20)
Optional Glaze
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper so the seasonings are evenly distributed.
  4. Add the ground beef, minced onion, egg mixture, and breadcrumb mixture to a large bowl. Gently mix with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide, then place it on your prepared baking sheet or dish.
  6. If using the glaze, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf. For a simpler version, spread plain ketchup over the top.
  7. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender
  • Let the meatloaf rest before slicing so it holds together better
  • To double the recipe, shape into two loaves and bake until fully cooked
  • You can skip the glaze and use plain ketchup for a more classic version
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days and reheat easily

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