Gather your ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. This will save you time and ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Prepare the meatloaf mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onions, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. This step allows all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious meatloaf.
Shape the meatloaf
Once the mixture is well combined, transfer it to a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf shape on a baking sheet. To prevent sticking, you can line the pan with parchment paper. Make sure to evenly distribute the meat mixture to ensure even cooking.
Add the finishing touch
Brush the top of the meatloaf with ketchup. This will give your meatloaf a delicious glaze and add a touch of sweetness. You can also add additional seasonings or toppings of your choice to personalize your meatloaf.
Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the meatloaf for approximately 1 hour. To ensure it is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Let it rest
Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing and serving easier.
Serve and enjoy!
Now that your homemade meatloaf is ready, slice it into thick pieces and serve it with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade meal.
Remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t exactly how you envisioned it. With a little practice, you’ll become a master at making homemade meatloaf just the way you like it.