Description
This classic meatloaf combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, topped with a sweet ketchup glaze, and served with rich onion gravy. It’s a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix gently with your hands, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf by hand or use a lightly greased loaf pan.
- Transfer the meatloaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, or place the loaf pan directly in the oven.
- Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- While the meatloaf is baking, heat the olive oil or butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté for 10-15 minutes until caramelized and golden brown.
- Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- For a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then gradually add it to the simmering gravy while stirring. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces (about 1-inch thick).
- Serve the meatloaf slices on a plate and ladle the onion gravy generously over the top.
- For a complete meal, serve with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or chopped herbs into the meatloaf mixture.
- Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes