Classic Juicy Meatloaf Recipe

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(Soft, moist, restaurant-style)

INGREDIENTS

For the Meatloaf

2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 is ideal)

1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup ketchup

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp mustard (optional but great for flavor)

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Glaze

1/2 cup ketchup

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp vinegar (apple cider or white)

⭐ INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Line a baking tray with foil or lightly grease a loaf pan.

  1. Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine:

✔ Ground beef
✔ Breadcrumbs
✔ Onion
✔ Garlic
✔ Eggs
✔ Milk
✔ Ketchup
✔ Worcestershire
✔ Mustard
✔ All seasonings
✔ Parsley

Gently mix with your hands until combined.
Do NOT overmix — that makes the meatloaf tough.

  1. Shape the Loaf

Form the mixture into a loaf shape on a tray or press gently into a loaf pan.

Smooth the top.

  1. Add the Glaze

Mix glaze ingredients:
✔ Ketchup
✔ Brown sugar
✔ Worcestershire
✔ Vinegar

Spread half of the glaze on the meatloaf before baking.

  1. Bake

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 55–65 minutes.

Add the rest of the glaze during the last 15 minutes.

Meatloaf should reach internal temp 160°F (71°C).

  1. Rest and Slice

Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing.
This helps it stay juicy and firm.

⭐ TIPS FOR PERFECT MEATLOAF

Use fatty beef

80/20 ground beef = tender, moist meatloaf.

Don’t skip milk

It hydrates the breadcrumbs and keeps everything soft.

Onions should be finely diced

Chunky onions make the loaf fall apart.

Add glaze twice

First layer caramelizes, second layer stays saucy.

Let it rest

Prevents crumbling and keeps moisture inside.

⭐ SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Serve with:

Mashed potatoes

Roasted veggies

Green beans

Mac and cheese

Brown gravy on the side

⭐ OPTIONAL ADD-INS

Try mixing in:

1/2 cup shredded cheese

1/2 cup finely chopped bell peppers

Extra herbs (thyme, parsley)

A few chopped jalapeños for spice

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