Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ pounds (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for moisture)
  • 1 package (1 ounce/28g) dry onion soup mix (e.g., Lipton Recipe Secrets)
  • 1 cup (240ml) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup (60ml) ketchup (plus extra for topping, if desired)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion (if using), and minced garlic (if using).
  3. Gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the meatloaf will be tough.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the loaf pan.
  5. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf, if desired.
  6. Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf to ensure it's cooked through.
  7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.