If you are craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender ground beef, savory herbs, and a rich glaze, it delivers a perfect balance of flavors and moisture that will satisfy your appetite and delight everyone at the table. This classic dish combines simple pantry staples with a thoughtful touch to create a memorable meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s building flavor, adding texture, or creating that irresistible glaze that crowns the dish.
- 1.5 pounds ground beef: The star protein that brings heartiness and rich, meaty flavor to the loaf.
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs: These soak up moisture and help bind the meat, ensuring a tender bite every time.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder, keeping everything together without making it heavy.
- 0.25 cup milk: Adds moisture and softness to keep the meatloaf juicy.
- 0.5 cup finely chopped onion: Infuses the meat with sweet and savory undertones for depth.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Delivers aromatic warmth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: A touch of tang and sweetness mixed into the meat for balance.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds an umami punch that deepens the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild heat to keep things interesting.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers subtle herbal earthiness that complements the beef beautifully.
- 0.25 cup ketchup for glaze: Creates a glossy, flavorful finish on the outside.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar for glaze: Adds caramelized sweetness to the topping.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for glaze: Provides a gentle kick and complexity to the glaze.
How to Make Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This even, moderate temperature is perfect for cooking the meatloaf thoroughly without drying it out. Get out a large bowl and your loaf pan or baking sheet so everything is within easy reach.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to combine until just mixed. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to a dense texture instead of the tender bite we want.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Gently shape the meat mixture into a classic loaf form. You can press it into a greased loaf pan for a neat shape or place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment for a slightly crustier edge. The shape you choose will slightly affect the texture but both options are delicious.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This glaze adds a beautiful shiny top with a tangy sweetness that caramelizes during baking for extra flavor and eye appeal.
Step 5: Apply the Glaze and Bake
Brush the glaze evenly over the top surface of the meatloaf. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures the meatloaf is perfectly cooked through while staying moist and juicy.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice tender and flavorful instead of crumbly or dry.
How to Serve Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top to bring brightness and color to the serving plate. For a comforting touch, a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes beside the sliced meatloaf looks inviting and tastes divine.
Side Dishes
Classic side dishes like buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad pair wonderfully. The meatloaf’s rich flavor balances perfectly with fresh, lighter picks that keep the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Slice the leftover meatloaf and use it in sandwiches layered with cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a hearty lunch. You can also dice it into a skillet with some veggies to create a quick hash that reinvents this timeless dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making perfect next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf Recipe later, wrap the whole loaf or individual slices well in foil and freezer-safe bags. Frozen meatloaf keeps well for up to 3 months and thaws beautifully overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm at 325°F (163°C) for 15–20 minutes to keep that juicy texture intact. Microwaving works too, but be mindful of uneven heating which can dry out the edges.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner option. Just be sure to add a bit more moisture, like extra milk or a splash of olive oil, since turkey tends to be drier than beef.
How do I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture will remain just as satisfying without compromising flavor.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute it with a mix of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar or a bit of balsamic vinegar for that umami kick, keeping the savory balance perfect.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before?
Yes! Mixing the ingredients the night before and refrigerating helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just shape and add the glaze right before baking for best results.
Is it possible to cook meatloaf in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Shape and place the meatloaf in the slow cooker, skip the glaze or add it halfway through cooking. It will take about 4 to 6 hours on low and will be wonderfully tender, though it won’t have the caramelized crust from the oven.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf Recipe enough—it’s a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy with its comforting flavors and luscious texture. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this recipe delivers warmth, depth, and joy with every bite. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite homemade comfort food.
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Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hearty Juicy Baked Meatloaf is a classic comfort food made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a flavorful blend of seasonings. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, this meatloaf is moist, tender, and perfect for a family dinner. The recipe features simple ingredients and an easy baking method that delivers a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 0.25 cup milk
- 0.5 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Glaze
- 0.25 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently.
- Mix gently: Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet or press it into a greased loaf pan.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Apply the glaze: Brush the glaze evenly over the top of the shaped meatloaf to add flavor and moisture.
- Bake the meatloaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Rest before slicing: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat mixture as it can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature for safe consumption.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix for a leaner option.
- Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
