Homemade meatloaf

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Difficulty: Easy
Category: Dinner / Main Course
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)

• ⅓ cup milk

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh if available)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow)

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)

 Equipment

• 10–12″ cast iron skillet

• Mixing bowl

• Spoon or spatula

• Foil (optional)

• Meat thermometer (recommended)

 Time Breakdown

 Instructions

 Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Cast Iron

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly oil your cast iron skillet with olive oil or a small dab of butter to prevent sticking.

 Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, gently combine:

• Ground beef

• Breadcrumbs soaked briefly in milk

• Beaten eggs

• Diced onion, garlic

• Ketchup, Worcestershire sauce

• Seasonings: salt, pepper, parsley, paprika

 Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon — don’t overmix, or the meatloaf will be tough.

 Step 3: Form & Add to Skillet

1. Transfer the mixture to your cast iron skillet.

2. Shape it into a loaf in the center of the skillet (leave some space around the edges for even cooking).

3. Smooth the top slightly with a spatula or your hands.

 Step 4: Add the Glaze

In a small bowl, stir together:

• Ketchup

• Brown sugar

• Mustard

• Optional: apple cider vinegar

Spread the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf with a spoon or brush.

 Step 5: Bake

1. Bake uncovered in the center of the oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

2. If the glaze starts to brown too quickly, tent loosely with foil.

3. Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing — this helps retain the juices.

 Step 6: Serve

Slice thickly and serve warm with classic sides like:

• Mashed potatoes

• Green beans or roasted vegetables

• Mac and cheese

• Cornbread or crusty bread

 Nutrition (Approximate per serving – based on 8 servings)

 Tips & Variations

• Don’t skip the rest! Resting prevents all the juices from running out when slicing.

• Want more veggies? Add finely grated carrots, celery, or zucchini into the meat mixture.

• Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the glaze.

• No breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute.

• Ground meat options: Use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor, or ground turkey for a lighter version.

 Storage & Reheating