Easy Meatloaf

Steps

1. 1
   Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. 2
   Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, season with salt, and sauté until softened and lightly browned, adding water if needed to prevent burning.
3. 3
   Stir in the pressed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. 4
   Transfer the onion-garlic mixture to a large bowl, spread it out to cool to room temperature quickly, about 15 minutes or refrigerate for faster cooling.
5. 5
   Once cooled, add ground beef, eggs, milk, panko breadcrumbs, salt, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and black pepper.
6. 6
   Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined but not overmixed, to maintain a light and pleasant texture. You can use your hands or a wooden spoon.
7. 7
   Line a sheet pan with foil and lightly coat with oil. Transfer the mixture to the pan and shape into an 8x4-inch loaf that is 2 inches tall using damp hands.
8. 8
   Place the shaped meatloaf in the preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 30 minutes.
9. 9
   While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the sauce by mixing 6 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of packed brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and double the recipe if you prefer more sauce.
10. 10
    After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush half of the sauce over the top and sides.
11. 11
    Return to the oven and continue baking for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
12. 12
    Remove from the oven and let rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with the remaining sauce.