Warm, comforting, and full of flavor, this Hearty Homestyle Meatloaf is perfect for dinner. It's a timeless dish that brings everyone to the table, delivering a slice of nostalgia with every bite.
The foundation of this dish is ground beef. It's the heart of the meatloaf, providing that rich, savory flavor. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together while adding a bit of texture. Milk keeps the loaf moist, preventing it from drying out during baking. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring all ingredients meld together beautifully. Onion and garlic add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the beef perfectly. Worcestershire sauce brings a touch of umami, enhancing the meat's natural flavors. For seasoning, a bit of salt and black pepper goes a long way. The glaze, made of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, adds a sweet, tangy finish that balances the savory meatloaf perfectly.
Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. A slice of homemade bread on the side wouldn't hurt either!
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's hot and ready when you're ready to bake. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Add in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands (or a sturdy spoon) to mix everything until it's well combined. You want all the ingredients to be evenly distributed without overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
Next, shape the mixture into a loaf. You can place it in a lightly greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet. Either method works, but using a loaf pan helps the meatloaf hold its shape better.
In a small bowl, prepare the glaze by mixing together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of your meatloaf. It adds a delicious layer of flavor and helps keep the meatloaf moist.
Bake the meatloaf in your preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes. It's done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your slices juicy and flavorful.
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