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Cozy Classic Family Meatloaf Recipe Easy Lunchbox Idea for Kids

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A comforting and easy-to-make classic meatloaf recipe perfect for family meals and lunchboxes, featuring simple pantry ingredients and a tangy glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef (80% lean)
  • 3/4 cup (90 grams) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned; panko optional)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup until smooth.
  3. Stir in the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  4. Add the ground beef and fold it into the mixture with your hands or a sturdy spoon until just combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press down lightly to even out the top but don’t pack it too tightly.
  6. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Spread half of this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes. Halfway through baking, spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). If no thermometer, cut into the center to check that juices run clear.
  9. Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Slice into even pieces and serve warm or pack for lunchboxes. Slices hold well cold or reheated.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf. Use a glaze halfway through baking for moisture and flavor. Rest the meatloaf before slicing to help it set. Tent with foil if browning too fast. Can substitute ground turkey or chicken with adjusted cooking time. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. For dairy-free, substitute milk with almond or oat milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, family meal, lunchbox idea, easy meatloaf, comfort food, kid-friendly, ground beef recipe

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/cozy-classic-family-meatloaf-recipe-easy-lunchbox-idea-for-kids/