Best Meatloaf Family Favorite
This juicy, tender meatloaf features a melty cheddar cheese center and a sweet ketchup glaze, making it a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Equipment
- 1 oven preheat to 375°F
- 1 loaf pan or baking sheet lightly greased or lined
- 1 large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs ground beef or mix beef & pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Fresh parsley finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a loaf pan or baking sheet by greasing or lining it.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Press half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared pan.
- Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese in the center, then cover with the remaining meat mixture and seal the edges.
- Form the mixture into a loaf and prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
- Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 40 minutes, then remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 20 minutes until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Mix meat gently to keep meatloaf tender and juicy.
- Use beef and pork mix for richer flavor.
- Allow resting time to help meatloaf hold its shape when slicing.