Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10 recommended)
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan, or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for a free-form loaf.
- In a small skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, beaten eggs, cooled sautéed onion and garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently press it down evenly, or shape it into a free-form loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the glaze ingredients: ketchup, light brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and balsamic vinegar (if using) until smooth.
- Pour about half of the glaze mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Carefully brush the remaining glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part.
- Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist loaf. Slice into thick pieces, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. Freezing: Cooked and cooled meatloaf slices can be individually wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Serving Suggestions: This savory meatloaf pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. Don’t forget extra glaze on the side for dipping! Variations: For an extra veggie boost, finely grate a carrot or zucchini into the mixture. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 5oz or 140g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
