Classic meatloaf recipe with a step-by-step guide

classic meatloaf

Certainly! Here's a classic meatloaf recipe with a step-by-step guide:

### Ingredients:

#### For the Meatloaf:

- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85% lean)

- 1 cup breadcrumbs

- 1 cup milk

- 1 large egg

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

- 1/2 cup carrot, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup ketchup

- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

#### For the Glaze:

- 1/2 cup ketchup

- 2 tablespoons brown sugar

- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

### Instructions:

#### Prepare the Meatloaf:

1. **Preheat the Oven:**

   - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. **Soak Breadcrumbs:**

   - In a large bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk. Let them sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.

3. **Combine Ingredients:**

   - Add ground beef, chopped onion, celery, carrot, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.

4. **Mix Thoroughly:**

   - Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.

classic meatloaf

5. **Shape the Loaf:**

   - Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.

#### Prepare the Glaze:

6. **Mix Glaze Ingredients:**

   - In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.

7. **Glaze the Meatloaf:**

   - Brush or spread the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.

#### Bake:

8. **Bake in the Oven:**

   - Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

9. **Rest and Slice:**

   - Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist.

10. **Serve:**

    - Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides.

Enjoy this classic meatloaf recipe! Feel free to customize it with additional herbs, spices, or your favorite ingredients.