Easy Beef Meatloaf Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Finding a recipe that is both delicious and simple to prepare can be a challenge, especially on busy weeknights. Enter the beef meatloaf recipe easy. This c……

Finding a recipe that is both delicious and simple to prepare can be a challenge, especially on busy weeknights. Enter the beef meatloaf recipe easy. This classic dish is not only comforting but also incredibly straightforward to make. Below, you'll find a detailed guide to creating an easy beef meatloaf that will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

### Ingredients:

- 1 pound ground beef

- 1 egg

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 cup milk

- 1 cup dried bread crumbs

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons brown sugar

- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard

- 1/3 cup ketchup

### Instructions:

1. **Preheat and Prepare:**

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 5x9 inch loaf pan to ensure the meatloaf doesn't stick.

2. **Mixing the Meatloaf:**

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, onion, milk, and bread crumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until they are well combined. This ensures that the meatloaf will hold together well when cooked.

3. **Forming the Loaf:**

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently to form a loaf shape. This helps the meatloaf cook evenly.

4. **Adding the Glaze:**

In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory meat.

5. **Baking:**

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C) to ensure it is cooked through.

6. **Resting and Serving:**

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, making each slice moist and flavorful.

### Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf:

- **Choose the Right Beef:**

Opt for ground beef with a bit of fat content (around 80% lean). This helps keep the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.

- **Don't Overmix:**

When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

- **Customize Your Meatloaf:**

Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or even a handful of shredded cheese to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.

- **Make Ahead:**

This beef meatloaf recipe easy can be prepared ahead of time. Simply mix and shape the loaf, then cover and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This can save you time on particularly busy nights.

- **Leftovers:**

Meatloaf makes for great leftovers. You can reheat slices in the microwave or use them to make meatloaf sandwiches. Just add a slice of meatloaf to some crusty bread with a bit of your favorite condiment, and you have a quick and satisfying meal.

### Conclusion:

This beef meatloaf recipe easy is a fantastic option for those hectic evenings when you need to get dinner on the table quickly. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, with the ability to customize and make ahead, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Give it a try, and it just might become one of your go-to weeknight dinners.