FAMILY-FAVORITE COMFORT MEATLOAF
This easy, old-school meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and packed with simple ingredients that bring everyone to the table. The secret touch of dill pickle relish adds a gentle tang that makes the flavor pop without overpowering the dish.
Serves: 6–8
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup dill pickle relish, drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the topping:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Meat Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, drained dill pickle relish, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, or the meatloaf can become dense.
Step 2 — Shape the Loaf
Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it by hand into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
Step 3 — Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 4 — Bake
Bake uncovered for 55–70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5 — Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy and makes slicing easier.
Serving Tips
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered green beans for a complete comfort-food dinner everyone will love.