Ingredients (serves 4–6)
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1 1/2 pounds (680g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup (60ml) milk
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1 large egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
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1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup (for topping)
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1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for topping)
Instructions
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Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C).
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Mix ingredients:
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In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
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Shape the loaf:
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Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, or on a lined baking sheet.
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Add topping:
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Spread ketchup over the top. Sprinkle brown sugar if using.
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Bake:
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Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Rest and serve:
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Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or your favorite sides.
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✅ Tips:
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For extra moisture, add 1/4 cup finely grated carrot or zucchini to the mix.
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You can swap ketchup topping with barbecue sauce for a different flavor.
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Leftovers make great sandwiches the next day.
If you want, I can also give you a stovetop or skillet meatloaf version that cooks entirely without an oven—still tender and flavorful. Do you want that version?
