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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will bake evenly and reach the perfect texture.
#### 2. **Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
#### 3. **Shape the Meatloaf**
Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan (a 9×5-inch pan works well). If you prefer, you can also shape the meatloaf by hand into a free-form loaf on a lined baking sheet. This gives the meatloaf a more rustic look and allows the edges to crisp up a bit.
#### 4. **Top with Ketchup**
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. You can also add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the ketchup if you like a slightly sweet glaze. This topping caramelizes as the meatloaf bakes, adding both flavor and moisture.
#### 5. **Bake the Meatloaf**
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The top should be browned, and the ketchup glaze will have thickened and caramelized.
#### 6. **Let It Rest**
After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist.
#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**
Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve it with your favorite sides. Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few days or even frozen for later.
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### **Customizing Your Meatloaf**
One of the best things about meatloaf is how versatile it is. You can make small adjustments to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences:
– **Add Vegetables**: For extra flavor and nutrition, try mixing in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or spinach. These can add moisture and freshness to the meatloaf.
– **Spices and Herbs**: Experiment with different seasonings like thyme, basil, or smoked paprika to change up the flavor profile. Adding a little hot sauce or red pepper flakes can also give the meatloaf a spicy kick.
– **Cheese**: You can incorporate shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, directly into the meat mixture for added richness. Alternatively, top the meatloaf with a layer of cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, gooey finish.
– **Glaze Variations**: Try swapping the ketchup for barbecue sauce or a balsamic glaze for a different kind of topping. Some people even use a combination of ketchup and mustard for a tangy twist.
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### **Tips for the Best Meatloaf**
– **Don’t Overmix**: When combining the ingredients, mix just enough to combine everything. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
– **Use Lean Meat**: If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, you can use ground turkey or chicken. However, be sure to add a little extra moisture, like a tablespoon of olive oil, since lean meats tend to be drier than beef.
– **Resting Time**: Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial for juicy slices. It also makes it easier to cut cleanly.
– **Use a Meat Thermometer**: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through but still juicy, a meat thermometer is your best friend. The perfect internal temperature is 160°F (70°C).
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### **Conclusion:**
This easy and tasty meatloaf recipe is the perfect way to bring comfort to your dinner table without a lot of hassle. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Customize it to your liking, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please everyone.
So the next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner, give this classic meatloaf recipe a try. It’s the perfect balance of flavors, and best of all, it’s ready in just a few steps! Enjoy!
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