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Meatloaf is more than just a dish; it's a warm embrace on a plate, a nostalgic reminder of family dinners and home-cooked meals that evoke a sense of comfort and security. This beloved comfort food has graced dining tables across America and beyond, often serving as a centerpiece for family gatherings, potlucks, and even weeknight dinners. The beauty of meatloaf lies not only in its heartiness but also in its versatility, allowing cooks to infuse their personal touch into each loaf, transforming it into a unique creation that reflects individual tastes.

Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Discover the warm embrace of Hearty Homestyle Meatloaf, a timeless comfort food that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. This versatile dish is rich in flavor and easy to personalize to fit your taste. With fresh, quality ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can create a meatloaf that's moist, flavorful, and satisfying. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or get creative with your favorite veggies for a hearty, delicious meal. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy the comforting aroma of this homestyle classic.
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 mix for best flavor)

1 cup breadcrumbs (use plain or Italian seasoned)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup milk

1 large egg

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon ketchup (plus extra for topping)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Optional: ½ cup bell pepper, finely chopped for added flavor and texture

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly.

    Mix Your Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. If you're using bell pepper, add it in at this stage. Mix all the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix as this can toughen the meatloaf.

      Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a freeform loaf on a lined baking sheet. If using a loaf pan, press the mixture firmly into the pan to eliminate air pockets.

        Top it Off: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze. This will caramelize and add sweetness as it cooks.

          Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

            Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

              Slice and Serve: Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board, slice into thick pieces, and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and green beans.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6-8