Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and soften.
Mix the Meatloaf:
Add the ground beef, chopped onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Shape and Place in Pan:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using). Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer.
Rest and Serve:
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a more tender meatloaf.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 30 minutes
Nutrition (per serving, based on 8 servings):
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 720mg
Total Carbohydrate: 16g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 24g
This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is a timeless recipe that delivers on both flavor and comfort. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a Sunday family meal. Enjoy this hearty classic with your favorite sides for a truly satisfying experience