Ingredients
Method
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect meat loaf:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion soup mix, eggs, bread crumbs, water (or milk), ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, light brown sugar, black pepper, and kosher salt. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it gently to form an even loaf shape.
- Add the glaze: Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf. For extra flavour, mix the ketchup with a little brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce before spreading it.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavourful.
Notes
For best results, use lean ground beef to prevent any extra grease from keeping the meatloaf moist. Combine onion soup mix with breadcrumbs and an egg for the soft, tender, bound texture.
Try adding a little honey or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor to the glaze. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to hold in juice before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies as a complete meal.