Here’s a list of ingredients for a **juicy, moist meatloaf** made with beef, optimized for SEO-friendly formatting and keywords:
- **Ground beef (80/20 blend)** - Provides the perfect balance of lean meat and fat for a moist, flavorful meatloaf.
- **Breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)** - Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together while keeping it tender.
- **Milk** - Adds moisture and helps soften the breadcrumbs for a juicy texture.
- **Eggs** - Binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the meatloaf.
- **Onion (finely chopped)** - Enhances flavor and adds moisture to the meatloaf.
- **Garlic (minced)** - Adds depth and savory flavor to the dish.
- **Ketchup (or tomato sauce)** - Adds tangy sweetness and moisture to the meatloaf.
- **Worcestershire sauce** - Provides a savory, umami flavor to the beef.
- **Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)** - Adds a tangy kick and enhances the overall flavor.
- **Salt and black pepper** - Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors of the meat and other ingredients.
- **Italian seasoning (or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano)** - Adds aromatic flavor to the meatloaf.
- **Brown sugar (optional)** - Balances the tanginess of the ketchup or tomato sauce in the glaze.
- **BBQ sauce (optional)** - Can be used as a glaze or mixed into the meatloaf for extra flavor.
- **Parmesan cheese (optional)** - Adds a savory, cheesy flavor to the meatloaf.
**Pro Tip:** For an extra moist meatloaf, consider adding **grated zucchini** or **shredded carrots** to the mixture. These ingredients add moisture and nutrients while keeping the meatloaf tender.
This ingredient list is perfect for creating a **classic, moist beef meatloaf** that’s flavorful, tender, and family-friendly!
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Steps
# How to Make a Luscious, Moist Meatloaf: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're craving a **juicy, flavorful meatloaf** that’s packed with moisture and bursting with savory goodness, this recipe is for you. Follow these detailed steps to create the **perfect moist meatloaf** that will impress your family and friends.
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### **Ingredients for a Moist Meatloaf**
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal moisture)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for added texture)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best)
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **1. Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This ensures even cooking and helps lock in moisture.
#### **2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **ground beef**, **breadcrumbs**, **chopped onion**, and **minced garlic**. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatloaf dense.
#### **3. Add Wet Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **eggs**, **milk**, **ketchup**, and **Worcestershire sauce**. Pour this mixture into the beef mixture. Add the **thyme**, **smoked paprika**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Mix until just combined.
#### **4. Shape the Meatloaf**
Transfer the mixture to a **loaf pan** or shape it into a loaf on a **baking sheet lined with parchment paper**. For extra moisture, create a shallow indentation along the top of the loaf to hold the glaze.
#### **5. Add the Glaze**
Spread a generous layer of **ketchup** (or a mix of ketchup and brown sugar for a sweet glaze) over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist.
#### **6. Bake to Perfection**
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for **50-60 minutes**, or until the internal temperature reaches **160°F (71°C)**. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
#### **7. Rest Before Serving**
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for **10 minutes**. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender slice.
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### **Tips for the Best Moist Meatloaf**
- Use **80/20 ground beef** for the perfect balance of fat and flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the texture light.
- Add **grated vegetables** like carrots or zucchini for extra moisture.
- Cover the meatloaf with foil halfway through baking to prevent the top from drying out.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
Pair your **moist meatloaf** with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day!
By following these steps, you’ll create a **luscious, moist meatloaf** that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
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