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The Best Meatloaf You’ll Ever Make
Sophia Ramirez

The Best Meatloaf You’ll Ever Make – Juicy & Easy Recipe

Discover the ultimate juicy meatloaf recipe that’s incredibly easy to make. With simple pantry ingredients and foolproof techniques, this tender, flavorful meatloaf delivers perfect texture every time – a true family favorite comfort food dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (for glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for glaze)

Equipment

  • 9x5 inch loaf pan For shaping the meatloaf
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Meat thermometer Essential for perfect doneness
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small bowl For mixing the glaze

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and breadcrumbs. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes. This soaking step creates the foundation for juicy texture.
  3. Add the ground beef, ground pork, finely diced onion, minced garlic, lightly beaten eggs, ketchup, yellow mustard, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to the soaked breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a sturdy spoon just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Gently press down and shape the top into a smooth dome.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: ½ cup ketchup, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder until smooth.
  7. Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 45 minutes.
  8. Remove from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top and sides. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This step ensures maximum juiciness.

Notes

Rest the meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in juices. Use a meat thermometer for guaranteed perfect results every time. Leftovers make incredible sandwiches.