Introduction to the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
Have you ever craved a warm and comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings? Look no further than the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight—a timeless recipe that delivers both flavor and nostalgia in every bite.
With its rich, savory taste and irresistible aroma, this dish will fill your kitchen with warmth, making it impossible to resist. Picture a perfectly baked meatloaf, topped with a glossy, caramelized glaze, ready to be sliced and served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fresh green beans.
The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight isn’t just about taste—it’s about creating heartwarming experiences reminiscent of homemade meals shared with loved ones. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a holiday feast, this dish guarantees to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Get ready to enjoy an explosion of flavors, wrapped in a savory blend of spices and tender, juicy meat. Once you try this Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight, it will become a staple in your kitchen for years to come!
Why You’ll Love the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
✔ Comfort Food Classic – There’s something intrinsically comforting about a slice of Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight. This dish evokes nostalgia, reminding us of family dinners and the warmth of home-cooked meals. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a favorite for many, delivering a wholesome and satisfying dining experience.
✔ Customizable Ingredients – One of the best things about the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to incorporate vegetables, try different meats like turkey or chicken, or make it gluten-free, the possibilities are endless.
✔ Quick Preparation Time – Preparing this delicious, hearty meal doesn’t require spending hours in the kitchen. In under 15 minutes, you can have your Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight ready for baking! It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal without too much fuss.
✔ Delicious Leftovers – If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’ll love how Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight tastes even better the next day! Slice it up for sandwiches, serve it cold with a fresh side salad, or reheat for a quick and comforting lunch that everyone will enjoy.
This Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight is truly a go-to comfort food that’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion! Try it today and enjoy the ultimate homemade experience. 🍽️
Mini Cannoli Cups – The Perfect Party Dessert Everyone Will Love!
Ingredients for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
Creating the perfect meatloaf starts with choosing the right ingredients to enhance flavor, texture, and overall taste. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need to make the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight, along with expert tips and possible substitutions to suit different dietary needs.
Main Ingredients
✔ Ground Beef – The foundation of any great meatloaf! For the best results:
- 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio: Ensures juiciness while preventing excessive greasiness.
- 90/10 lean beef: A leaner option but may need added moisture (extra egg or ketchup) to prevent dryness.
- Ground turkey or chicken: A lighter alternative, but consider adding extra seasoning for depth of flavor.
✔ Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the ingredients together while maintaining a moist, tender texture. Options include:
- Seasoned breadcrumbs: Enhances taste without needing extra herbs and spices.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Creates a lighter, slightly crispier texture.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs: Perfect for a gluten-free version.
- Crushed crackers or oats: A great alternative if you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand.
✔ Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together so the meatloaf doesn’t fall apart. Use large eggs for best results.
✔ Ketchup – Adds sweetness, moisture, and a tangy depth to the meatloaf. Other substitutes include:
- BBQ sauce: For a smoky, richer taste.
- Tomato paste + brown sugar: A homemade alternative to ketchup.
- Worcestershire sauce: If you prefer a savory, umami kick.
✔ Onion – Brings natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Sautéed onions: For a milder, richer flavor.
- Raw finely chopped onions: Adds a stronger, more noticeable taste.
- Onion powder: A good substitute if you don’t like onion chunks.
Seasoning & Flavor Enhancers
A great meatloaf isn’t just about the meat—it’s the seasonings that truly bring it to life!
✔ Garlic Powder – Provides a deep, savory note.
- Fresh minced garlic can be used instead for an even bolder taste.
✔ Dried Thyme – Adds a touch of earthy flavor.
- Italian seasoning can be used for a more aromatic twist.
- Oregano or rosemary can provide a more herbal profile.
✔ Worcestershire Sauce – A must-have for depth and umami flavor. It enhances the overall richness of the meatloaf.
✔ Salt & Black Pepper – Don’t skimp on these! Proper seasoning is key to ensuring every bite is flavorful.
✔ Paprika or Smoked Paprika – Adds a touch of warmth and color. Smoked paprika provides an extra smoky dimension.
✔ Brown Sugar – A little brown sugar in the glaze balances the acidity of the ketchup and creates a beautiful caramelized crust.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Want to take your Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight to the next level? Try these:
✔ Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan can be mixed into the meat for added creaminess and flavor.
✔ Chopped Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness, texture, and a pop of color.
✔ Carrots & Celery – Finely grated carrots or chopped celery enhance moisture and provide extra nutrients.
✔ Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy a spicy kick!
✔ Mushrooms (Finely Chopped) – Adds umami flavor and extra moisture to leaner meats like turkey.
Alternative Ingredient Options for Special Diets
Want to make your Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight more diet-friendly? Here’s how:
✔ Gluten-Free Meatloaf:
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed rice crackers, or ground oats instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free (some brands contain wheat).
✔ Keto & Low-Carb Meatloaf:
- Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Use sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste instead of regular ketchup.
✔ Dairy-Free Meatloaf:
- Avoid adding cheese.
- Use dairy-free Worcestershire sauce if needed.
✔ Vegetable-Boosted Meatloaf:
- Add grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients.
✔ Meatloaf Without Eggs:
- Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Mashed potatoes or unsweetened applesauce can also act as binders.
The Ultimate Meatloaf Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended!)
A delicious glaze takes meatloaf to another level! Here’s a simple and flavorful glaze recipe:
🥄 Meatloaf Glaze Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup Ketchup
• 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
How to Make the Glaze:
1️⃣ Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.
2️⃣ Brush it over the meatloaf before baking for a caramelized, flavorful finish.
3️⃣ For a richer glaze, apply a second coat during the last 10 minutes of baking.
How to Make the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
Follow these simple, foolproof steps to create a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
🔥 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) – This temperature ensures even cooking while keeping the meatloaf moist and tender.
📌 Pro Tip: If using leaner meat (like ground turkey or chicken), preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) can help with proper caramelization.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions for Extra Flavor
🧅 In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions with a small amount of oil until they become translucent (about 5 minutes).
✔ Why Sauté First? Cooking the onions enhances their natural sweetness and prevents them from releasing excess moisture inside the meatloaf, which can make it too soft.
📌 Pro Tip: Want even more flavor? Add minced garlic to the onions in the last minute of sautéing.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients Carefully
🥣 In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the following:
✔ Ground beef – The foundation of a tender meatloaf (use 80/20 for best results).
✔ Sautéed onions – Adds sweetness and depth to the meatloaf.
✔ Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meat together while maintaining moisture.
✔ Eggs – Acts as a binder, keeping the meatloaf from falling apart.
✔ Ketchup – Provides moisture, tanginess, and subtle sweetness.
✔ Garlic powder – Enhances the savory depth of the dish.
✔ Dried thyme – Infuses aromatic herbal flavor into the meat.
✔ Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning balance.
📌 Mix Gently! Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf. Use your hands or a spoon to mix just until combined.
Step 4: Shape the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
✔ Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan for a classic shape or form it into a free-form loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a more rustic, crispy-edged meatloaf.
✔ Smooth out the top using your hands or a spatula to ensure even cooking and a nice presentation.
📌 Pro Tip: If using a loaf pan, avoid pressing the meat mixture down too firmly—it should be gently packed to prevent a dense texture.
Step 5: Add the Flavorful Topping
🥄 Spread reserved ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf. This not only adds a delicious glaze but also helps keep the meatloaf moist while baking.
🍯 Want to elevate the glaze? Try this mixture:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
✔ Mix together and spread over the meatloaf before baking for an extra rich, caramelized crust.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Done
🔥 Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (70°C).
📌 Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—overbaking can dry it out!
🥩 Cooking time adjustments:
- Thicker loaf: May require 5–10 extra minutes.
- Smaller portions (mini meatloafs): Reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes.
Step 7: Rest, Slice & Serve!
✔ Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each slice moist and flavorful.
✔ Transfer to plates and serve each slice drizzled with extra sauce (if desired) for added richness.
🥗 Serving Suggestions:
Pair your Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes 🥔
- Roasted vegetables 🥕🥦
- Garlic butter green beans 🌿
- Buttery dinner rolls 🍞
Tips and Tricks for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
To ensure your Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight turns out perfectly juicy, flavorful, and tender, follow these expert tips and tricks:
1. Use Lean Meat for the Best Texture
✔ Choose 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ground beef to prevent excess grease pooling at the bottom of the pan while keeping the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
✔ Avoid extra-lean beef (90/10 or higher) unless adding extra moisture (such as milk or grated vegetables) to prevent dryness.
✔ For lighter options, substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork while ensuring proper seasoning for enhanced taste.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meat Mixture
✔ Mix gently until just combined—overmixing compresses the meat, leading to a dense, tough texture instead of a tender, moist loaf.
✔ Use your hands or a spatula for mixing rather than a mixer to keep the meatloaf light.
✔ For best results, add breadcrumbs and eggs gradually to ensure even distribution without overworking the mixture.
3. Boost Flavor and Nutrition with Vegetables
✔ Finely chop or grate vegetables such as:
- Bell peppers – Adds mild sweetness and moisture.
- Carrots – Enhances natural sweetness while sneaking in nutrients.
- Mushrooms – Provides a rich umami flavor.
- Zucchini – Keeps the meatloaf extra moist.
📌 Pro Tip: Sauté vegetables before adding them to the mixture for an extra layer of depth and sweetness!
4. Check the Internal Temperature for Perfect Doneness
✔ Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for beef meatloaf and 165°F (74°C) for poultry-based meatloaf.
✔ Avoid cutting too soon—undercooked meatloaf can fall apart, while overcooked meatloaf can dry out.
✔ If baking free-form (without a loaf pan), check 10 minutes earlier as it may cook faster.
5. Let the Meatloaf Rest Before Slicing
✔ Rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
✔ If sliced too soon, the juices will escape, leading to dry meatloaf.
📌 Pro Tip: Cover the loaf loosely with foil while resting to keep it warm!
Mistakes to Avoid When Making the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
Even the best meatloaf recipes can go wrong if common mistakes aren’t avoided. To ensure a perfectly juicy, tender, and flavorful meatloaf, keep these key pitfalls in mind:
1. Overmixing the Meat
🚫 Why It’s a Mistake: Overmixing your meatloaf mixture results in a dense, tough texture instead of a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
✔ How to Fix It:
- Mix just until combined—overworking the mixture compresses the proteins, making the meatloaf chewy.
- Use a light touch! Mix with your hands or a fork rather than a spoon to gently incorporate ingredients.
- Aim for a slightly loose texture rather than a packed, uniform consistency.
📌 Pro Tip: If in doubt, mix the wet ingredients separately first before folding them into the meat. This prevents overmixing while ensuring even distribution of flavors!
2. Neglecting to Use Enough Moisture
🚫 Why It’s a Mistake: A dry meatloaf is a sad meatloaf! Without enough moisture-rich ingredients, your meatloaf can end up dry and crumbly.
✔ How to Fix It:
- Add onions, bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms—they naturally release moisture while baking.
- Use liquid binders like milk, broth, Worcestershire sauce, or even tomato sauce to keep the meatloaf juicy.
- Avoid using extra-lean meat (90/10 or leaner) without compensating with moisture.
📌 Pro Tip: If your recipe doesn’t call for vegetables or liquid ingredients, consider soaking breadcrumbs in milk or broth before mixing them in!
3. Skipping the Resting Time
🚫 Why It’s a Mistake: Cutting into the meatloaf too soon causes all the flavorful juices to escape, leaving your slices dry and crumbly.
✔ How to Fix It:
- Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- This allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the loaf.
- Cover loosely with foil to keep it warm while resting.
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, tent the meatloaf with foil for 5-7 minutes to speed up the process without losing too much moisture.
4. Using Low-Quality Meat
🚫 Why It’s a Mistake: Using poor-quality meat can lead to bland, tough, or overly greasy meatloaf.
✔ How to Fix It:
- Choose the right meat blend—80/20 (lean-to-fat ratio) ground beef offers the perfect balance of moisture and flavor.
- Avoid extra-lean meats (90/10 or higher) unless adding extra fat or moisture-rich ingredients.
- For extra flavor, mix ground beef with pork or veal for a juicier, more tender texture.
📌 Pro Tip: If using ground turkey or chicken, compensate by adding extra moisture (milk, broth, or sautéed vegetables) to avoid a dry texture.
Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight is a versatile, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or warm bread, these sides will elevate your meal and create a well-balanced, satisfying dining experience.
1. Classic Mashed Potatoes – A Perfect Comfort Pairing 🥔
Nothing complements meatloaf quite like creamy, buttery mashed potatoes! The rich, smooth texture balances the savory, hearty flavors of the meatloaf.
✔ How to Make Perfect Mashed Potatoes:
1️⃣ Boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2️⃣ Drain and mash with butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt & pepper.
3️⃣ For extra richness, add sour cream or shredded cheese.
4️⃣ Serve a generous scoop alongside your meatloaf for a classic comfort food experience.
📌 Pro Tip: Try garlic mashed potatoes by adding roasted garlic to the mix!
2. Roasted Vegetables – A Healthy, Flavorful Side 🥕🥦
For a nutrient-packed, colorful addition, roasted vegetables are an excellent pairing with Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight.
✔ Best Vegetables to Roast:
- Carrots – Natural sweetness enhances the meal.
- Brussels Sprouts – Crispy and slightly nutty.
- Green Beans – Light and fresh, adding texture.
- Zucchini & Squash – Soft, flavorful, and nutritious.
✔ How to Roast Vegetables:
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
2️⃣ Toss chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3️⃣ Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.
4️⃣ Stir halfway through for even cooking.
📌 Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor!
3. Fresh Salad – A Light, Refreshing Contrast 🥗
A crisp, fresh salad helps balance the richness of meatloaf, making the meal lighter and well-rounded.
✔ Easy Garden Salad Recipe:
- Mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber slices
- Thinly sliced red onions
✔ Homemade Vinaigrette Dressing:
1️⃣ 2 tbsp olive oil
2️⃣ 1 tbsp vinegar (balsamic, apple cider, or red wine)
3️⃣ ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
4️⃣ Salt & pepper to taste
5️⃣ Whisk and drizzle over salad before serving
📌 Pro Tip: Add feta cheese, walnuts, or cranberries for extra texture and flavor!
4. Warm Bread – The Perfect Companion for Sopping Up Juices 🍞
Warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls enhance the meatloaf experience by soaking up its savory juices and sauce.
✔ Best Bread Choices:
- Classic dinner rolls – Light and fluffy, great for dipping.
- Crusty French bread – Adds a satisfying crunch.
- Garlic bread – Boosts flavor with a buttery garlic spread.
✔ How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Rolls:
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Brush dinner rolls with a mix of melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley.
3️⃣ Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
4️⃣ Serve warm for the best taste!
📌 Pro Tip: Use leftover meatloaf to make sandwiches with toasted bread the next day!
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
If you’re looking for answers before making the Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight, check out these frequently asked questions to ensure your meatloaf turns out perfectly moist, flavorful, and satisfying!
1. What Makes This Meatloaf Recipe Special?
The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
✔ Key Features:
- Juicy & Tender Texture – A blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and eggs ensures the perfect consistency.
- Bold Seasoning – Garlic, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and other spices enhance depth of flavor.
- Delicious Glaze – A topping of ketchup or barbecue sauce adds a slightly sweet contrast to the savory meat.
- Customizable – Easily adapted with different meats, vegetables, or cheeses for a personalized touch!
📌 Pro Tip: Try adding a mix of beef and pork for extra moisture and flavor!
2. Can I Freeze Leftovers from This Meatloaf Recipe?
✔ Yes! Meatloaf freezes well, making it a great meal prep option.
✔ How to Freeze Leftover Meatloaf:
1️⃣ Cool completely before freezing to prevent condensation.
2️⃣ Slice into individual portions for easy reheating.
3️⃣ Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
4️⃣ Label & store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
✔ How to Reheat Frozen Meatloaf:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Oven: Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
📌 Pro Tip: Add a splash of broth or extra glaze before reheating to maintain moisture!
3. How Long Does It Take to Cook This Meatloaf Recipe?
✔ Total Cooking Time: About 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
✔ Cooking Instructions:
- Bake for 55–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
📌 Pro Tip: If using ground turkey or chicken, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
4. What Are Some Variations of This Meatloaf Recipe?
✔ Want to switch things up? Try these fun meatloaf variations!
🔹 Meat Substitutions:
- Turkey Meatloaf – Use ground turkey for a leaner version.
- Pork & Beef Blend – Combines the best of both worlds for added juiciness.
- Plant-Based Meatloaf – Use lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
🔹 Add-Ins for More Flavor:
- Diced Bell Peppers & Onions – Add a slight sweetness and texture.
- Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Parmesan, or Mozzarella) – Melts inside for a creamy, gooey center.
- Spice Boosters – Try Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or Cajun spices for a unique twist!
📌 Pro Tip: Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce or spicy Sriracha glaze for a bold new flavor!
Conclusion: The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight – A Timeless Comfort Food
The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight is more than just a meal—it’s a hearty, satisfying, and easy-to-make classic that fits into any busy schedule. With simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and delicious flavors, this recipe makes homemade meatloaf an effortless yet rewarding dish for any day of the week.
📌 About HealthyBlog365
Welcome to HealthyBlog365, your go-to destination for all things food and drink. We believe that every meal is not just a way to nourish your body but also a meaningful connection with yourself and your loved ones.
HealthyBlog365 was created with a mission to inspire healthy living through nutritious meals and refreshing beverages. Here, you’ll discover a treasure trove of creative recipes, kitchen tips, and healthy eating trends tailored to fit modern lifestyles.
💡 What can you find on HealthyBlog365?
- Delicious and easy-to-make recipes: From simple meals for busy mornings to wholesome dinners for family gatherings, we’ve got you covered for every occasion.
- Nutritious drinks: Explore recipes for juices, smoothies, detox teas, and drinks that cleanse your body, boost your mood, and energize your day.
- Guides on eating habits: Get detailed insights into popular diets like keto, low-carb, and vegetarian-friendly meal plans.
- Kitchen hacks: Discover smart tips to save time, preserve food, and cook more efficiently.
We are committed to providing high-quality content, staying up-to-date with the latest trends, and maintaining a balance between nutrition and flavor.
💻 Connect with HealthyBlog365 on Social Media
Join the HealthyBlog365 community on social media platforms to stay updated with our latest posts, watch exciting tutorials, and share your food stories with us:
- 📘 Facebook: Follow us here to stay updated with our latest posts and join our community.
- 📸 Instagram: Check us out here for inspiring visuals and ideas.
- 📌 Pinterest: Pin with us here to save creative ideas you’ll love.
- 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe here for detailed tutorials and exciting videos.
🌟 Thank You for Supporting HealthyBlog365!
We aim to build a connected community where everyone can share and learn from each other. If you have any questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via social media or our website.
We hope you have a wonderful time on HealthyBlog365 and find new inspiration for your healthy culinary journey!

Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe Delight
Description
Ingredients
- lean ground beef (80/20)
- seasoned breadcrumbs
- eggs
- ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- medium onion, chopped
- garlic powder
- dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet. Spread ketchup over the top.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.