Print

What is the secret to moist meatloaf?

Print Recipe

This Moist Classic Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—juicy, flavorful, and topped with a delicious glaze. The secret to its tender texture lies in a perfect balance of fat-rich ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, and a gentle mixing method. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it as a hearty centerpiece, this meatloaf guarantees a satisfying bite every time.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)

  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (80% lean, 20% fat)

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/2 cup whole milk (for soaking breadcrumbs)

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

  • 1/2 cup grated carrot

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

  • 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for glaze)

  • 1/4 cup beef broth

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

For Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup ketchup

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

  • 1 tsp yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. Soak breadcrumbs in milk and set aside for 5–10 minutes.

  3. Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and grated carrots. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Let cool.

  4. Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

  5. Shape and glaze: Transfer mixture into the loaf pan and shape into a loaf. Mix glaze ingredients and brush generously over the top.

  6. Bake for 60–70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  7. Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Notes

  • For extra moisture, you can add 2 tablespoons of shredded zucchini to the mixture.

  • Make it gluten-free by substituting breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free oats or almond flour.

  • Leftovers can be used for meatloaf sandwiches the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: moist meatloaf, classic meatloaf, juicy meatloaf, meatloaf recipe, ground beef meatloaf, comfort food, easy meatloaf, homemade meatloaf, meatloaf with glaze

Find it online: https://simpelrecipes.com/secret-to-moist-meatloaf/