Description
This easy meatloaf recipe combines ground chuck with flavorful seasonings and a tangy ketchup topping, baked to perfection for a tender and hearty main dish. It’s a classic comfort food that’s straightforward to prepare and yields moist, flavorful results perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 2 pounds ground chuck (80/20)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup milk
Topping
- 1/2 cup ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a rack in the center of the oven to ensure even baking.
- Mix the meatloaf: Combine all meatloaf ingredients except the milk in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds until blended. Gradually pour in the milk while mixing on low, avoiding overmixing to maintain a slightly sticky texture. Alternatively, mix by hand in a large bowl until homogeneous.
- Form the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into an ungreased 9×13-inch pan and shape into a 10×5-inch loaf. Spread the 1/2 cup ketchup evenly on top using an offset spatula if available. Optionally, bake in a loaf pan or divide the mixture into two smaller loaves for faster baking.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the pan in the oven and bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, about 1 hour and 15 minutes for one loaf. If using two smaller loaves, start checking at 40 minutes.
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to redistribute juices before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Using a stand mixer can make mixing easier and keep your hands clean.
- Dividing the meat into two smaller loaves reduces baking time.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
