Description
This Classic Meatloaf recipe offers a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, combining lean ground beef with a hint of smoked paprika and a tangy ketchup glaze enhanced by optional brown sugar. Moist and tender thanks to unsweetened applesauce, this meatloaf is a comforting, easy-to-make meal ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Topping
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, unsweetened applesauce, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and brown sugar if using. Evenly spread this glaze over the top of the meatloaf to add a sweet and tangy finish.
- Bake Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring it is thoroughly cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content but ensure the meatloaf remains juicy by not overmixing and using applesauce.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
- The brown sugar in the topping is optional but adds a nice sweet balance; omit for a less sweet glaze.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking helps it hold together better when sliced.
- For added flavor, you can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika or add herbs like thyme or parsley.
