American Hearty Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This dish features a savory blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a medley of herbs and spices, topped with a tangy tomato glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The meatloaf is moist and tender, with a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and green beans. Simple to prepare and loved by all ages, this meatloaf is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy family meal or a potluck gathering, embodying the essence of American home cooking at its finest.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best results)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and soften.
- Make the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, softened breadcrumb mixture, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, 1/2 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, smoothing out the top and sides.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The glaze should be caramelized and slightly crispy.
- Rest and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
Enjoy your American Hearty Meatloaf as a delicious and comforting meal that captures the essence of traditional home cooking, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
