Description
This fail-proof Classic Juicy Meatloaf is the answer to every dry, crumbly, or bland meatloaf you’ve suffered through. Featuring the perfect meat blend, a rich sautéed flavor base, and just the right amount of binder, this recipe turns comfort food into a reliable dinner winner. Moist, tender, and bursting with savory flavor—this is the meatloaf you’ll actually crave.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 large eggs
3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/3 cup whole milk
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the glaze:
1/3 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2 minutes to soak.
Add cooled vegetables, ground meat, parsley, eggs, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
Using your hands or a silicone spatula, gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Shape the mixture into a loaf, about 2–3 inches high, on the prepared baking sheet. Do not press too tightly.
In a small bowl, mix glaze ingredients. Set aside.
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes. Then, brush the top with glaze and return to oven for 15–20 more minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
Don’t skip the sauté—raw aromatics can overpower the dish.
For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with rolled oats or gluten-free crackers.
Want extra flavor? Add 1 tsp of Italian seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Leftovers make excellent meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: DINNER
- Method: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 8 slices)
- Calories: ~360 kcal
- Sugar: ~5g
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~24g