Gorgeous Meatloaf

This classic meal is a comforting and flavourful dish made from ground beef, vegetables, and a savoury glaze. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and a great choice for family meals. The result is a moist and tender meatloaf that pairs wonderfully with various sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Leftovers are also great for sandwiches.

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 5

Servings People

Ingredients

500 g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
1 small onion finely chopped
1 small carrot grated
2 cloves garlic minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg free range
2 tbsp milk
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp tomato ketchup plus extra for topping
1 tsp dried thyme
salt to taste
pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

3 tbsp tomato ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp brown sugar optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf tin.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, grated carrot, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, dried thyme, salt and pepper.
500 g ground beef, 1 small onion, 1 small carrot, 2 cloves garlic, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp tomato ketchup, 1 tsp dried thyme, salt, pepper
Mix until everything is well incorporated but avoid overmixing as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared tray, or press it into a loaf tin.
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar (if using). Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
3 tbsp tomato ketchup, 1 tbsp mustard, 1 tbsp brown sugar
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 70°C/160°F). If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminium foil.
Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes it easier to slice.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

This is a hearty dish, so it pairs well with classic comfort food sides. Here are a few ideas:

- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side for meatloaf. You can also try garlic mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes for something different.

- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting carrots, broccoli, or green beans in olive oil with a sprinkle of salt and pepper can add a nutritious and tasty balance to the meal.

- Gravy or Sauce: Although the meatloaf is often served with just its glaze, a rich gravy or mushroom sauce can add an extra level of indulgence.

- Coleslaw or a Green Salad: If you want something lighter, a fresh coleslaw or green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.

- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Freshly baked bread or rolls can be used to soak up any extra juices or sauces, making the meal even more filling.

Meatloaf is also great the next day, either reheated or served cold in sandwiches. Just slice it up, add some mustard or a bit of ketchup, and tuck it into some fresh bread for a quick and delicious meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition