Savory Herb Meatloaf

Name: Savory Herb Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup ketchup for topping

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 1 hour

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you're looking for a comforting dish that's packed with flavor and perfect for any weeknight dinner, this Savory Herb Meatloaf is your answer. With a blend of fresh herbs and a hint of Worcestershire sauce, this meatloaf promises to be juicy and full of flavor.

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Ingredients for Savory Herb Meatloaf

The backbone of this dish is, of course, the ground beef. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. Breadcrumbs are crucial for binding everything together and preventing the meatloaf from falling apart. By soaking them in milk, you ensure the meatloaf stays moist. A single egg further helps bind the mixture.

The addition of a finely chopped onion and minced garlic brings a depth of flavor. Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami kick that elevates the taste. Fresh parsley, along with dried thyme and oregano, infuse the loaf with an aromatic herbaceousness. A pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper round out the seasoning. Finally, a topping of ketchup caramelizes during baking, adding sweetness and tang.

Tips & Tricks

For a little extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard to the ketchup topping.
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can grate the onion instead of chopping it.
Letting the meatloaf rest is crucial for easier slicing and better texture.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking — aim for 160°F (70°C) internally.

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp mixed green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. Leftovers can make a great sandwich filling the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?: Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
How do I store leftovers?: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Savory Herb Meatloaf Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature to ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly and stays juicy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, and milk. Give it about five minutes for the breadcrumbs to soak up the milk. This step is crucial for achieving a moist texture.

Next, add in the egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it's well combined, but don't overwork it or you'll end up with a dense loaf.

Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan. Shape it gently into a loaf form, making sure it's even throughout so it cooks uniformly. Spread the ketchup evenly on top. This will form a delicious, slightly caramelized glaze as it bakes.

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and let it bake for about an hour, or until an internal thermometer reads 160°F (70°C). Once it's done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more tender meatloaf.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
Rich in flavor with a blend of herbs and spices.
Perfectly moist, not dry or crumbly.
Kid-friendly and great for leftovers.
Bakes in just one hour — ideal for busy evenings.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup milk

1 egg

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup ketchup for topping

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk.

3. Add the egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

5. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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