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Perfect Meatloaf – Plain and Simple

Perfect Meatloaf – Plain and Simple with a Sweet Twist

Discover the Perfect Meatloaf – Plain and Simple, featuring a sweet twist with a delicious ketchup topping for a nostalgic comfort meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 pounds Ground Beef Essential for structure and heartiness.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds richness and umami flavor.
  • 1 cup Bread (or breadcrumbs) Provides moisture and binding.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Fresh herb that elevates flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ingredients together.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Ketchup Offers sweetness and moisture.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Gives sweetness to the topping.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, torn bread or breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and the egg. Mix until well blended.
  3. Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup and brown sugar until fully combined. Spread this mixture over the top of the shaped loaf.
  5. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Check with a meat thermometer for doneness (internal temperature of 160°F or 70°C).
  6. Remove the Perfect Meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Mix thoroughly to avoid large chunks and adjust sweetness to taste. Resting helps keep each slice tender and delicious.

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