Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a spectacular culinary experience? Our classic American Meat Loaf with Sauce is more than just a recipe—it's a nostalgic journey that brings warmth, flavor, and pure comfort to your dining table. Imagine cutting into a perfectly baked, juicy meat loaf with a tangy ketchup glaze that promises to make even the pickiest eaters clean their plates!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it down to create an even surface. Shape the meat into a uniform loaf shape.
- Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meat loaf, creating a smooth, thick layer of sauce.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the meat loaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and easier to slice.
- Carefully drain any excess grease from the pan, then slice the meat loaf into thick servings and plate.
- Serve hot with your choice of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Use fresh ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Don't overmix the meat mixture—this can make your meat loaf tough and dense.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Let the meat loaf rest after baking to help retain its juices and make slicing easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding grated cheese or finely chopped herbs to your meat mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the meat loaf for 2-3 minutes after baking to caramelize the ketchup glaze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
