Flavor Without Salt

Classic Meatloaf

A tender, savory meatloaf with breadcrumbs, aromatics, Worcestershire sauce, and a sweet-tangy ketchup glaze.

Sliced classic meatloaf served with its ketchup glaze.
Prep
15 min
Cook
65 min
Serves
8

Introduction

This classic meatloaf combines ground beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, and savory seasonings for a tender, comforting main dish. A ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard glaze adds a lightly sweet and tangy finish.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef (88/12 works best)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased baking dish or on a foil-lined baking sheet.
  4. Mix the glaze ingredients together and spread half over the top of the meatloaf.
  5. Bake for 45 minutes, then spread on the remaining glaze.
  6. Continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Mix gently to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Use a meat thermometer to verify doneness at the center of the loaf.
  • Sodium will vary by brand, especially in the breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.

Substitutions

  • Ground beef: Ground turkey can be used for a leaner loaf, though the result may be less rich.
  • Plain breadcrumbs: Crushed unsalted crackers or quick-cooking oats can be used as a binder.
  • Milk: Unsalted or plain plant-based milk can be substituted.

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat individual slices in the microwave, or reheat covered in a 325°F oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Green Vegetables (Broccoli, Green Beans, etc)

Nutrition Notes

Nutrition information will vary depending on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.