Classic Meatloaf and Sticky Sauce – This classic meatloaf with sticky sauce is the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy your cravings. This dish is a perfect combination of juicy ground beef, savory onions, and garlic, flavored with Worcestershire sauce and thyme. It is topped with a delicious and sticky ketchup-based sauce that takes the taste to the next level. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. The best part is that it is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
This classic meatloaf recipe has been a staple in my household for years. I remember when I first made it for my husband, he was blown away by the flavors and how juicy it was. He immediately declared it his new favorite meal, and since then, it has become a go-to recipe in our house. It has also become a favorite among my little family members, who can’t resist its savory and sweet taste. I love that this recipe is easy to customize, and I often switch up the ingredients to keep things interesting.
Why This Classic Meatloaf Recipe is a Must-Try?
- The combination of savory ground beef, onion, garlic, and thyme creates an irresistible aroma and flavor that will leave you craving more.
- The addition of milk-soaked breadcrumbs gives the meatloaf a tender texture and helps to keep it juicy.
- The sticky ketchup-based sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory meatloaf.
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
- 100g panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1 medium-sized yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 900g ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (can use less or replace with 1 Tbsp fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Topping:
- 120g ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
Directions:
Preheat the oven or grill to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and milk. Stir to combine.
Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook the onions until they are fragrant and slightly brown while stirring occasionally, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and add the garlic. Cook for 2-3 additional minutes. Remove the pan from heat and set it aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, soaked bread crumbs with the milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and the cooked onions and garlic. Use your hands to combine the mixture, but try not to overwork the meat. Shape the mixture into a loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a crisscross pattern on top.
Bake the meatloaf uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. While the meatloaf is cooking, combine ketchup with mustard and brown sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
After 40 minutes of cooking, spread the sauce mixture over the top of the meatloaf and continue baking for about 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Notes:
- You can substitute panko bread crumbs with regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers.
- For a healthier version, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- The meatloaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- To check the internal temperature of the meatloaf, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C) before serving.
- The sticky sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
In conclusion, this classic meatloaf with sticky sauce recipe is the perfect comfort food that is easy to make, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its juicy and flavorful ground beef, combined with the perfect blend of spices, you’ll want to make this meatloaf recipe again and again. Plus, the sticky sauce adds a sweet and tangy touch that takes this dish to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and see for yourself why it’s a classic favorite.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should reach 160°F (70°C) before serving.
Can I make the sticky sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sticky sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Classic Meatloaf and Sticky Sauce
Ingredients
- 100 g panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup 240ml milk
- 1 medium-sized yellow onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 900 g ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme can use less or replace with 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Topping:
- 120 g ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven or grill to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and milk. Stir to combine.
- Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook the onions until they are fragrant and slightly brown while stirring occasionally, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and add the garlic. Cook for 2-3 additional minutes. Remove the pan from heat and set it aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, soaked bread crumbs with the milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and the cooked onions and garlic. Use your hands to combine the mixture, but try not to overwork the meat. Shape the mixture into a loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake the meatloaf uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. While the meatloaf is cooking, combine ketchup with mustard and brown sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
- After 40 minutes of cooking, spread the sauce mixture over the top of the meatloaf and continue baking for about 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
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