Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil to simplify cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, seasoned breadcrumbs, eggs, half of the ketchup, and the grated or minced onion. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared sheet pan and shape it into a compact loaf about 8 × 4 inches in size. The sheet pan method maximizes the surface area to achieve those delicious crispy edges.
- Spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf to create a glossy glaze that will caramelize during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If available, use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This resting period lets the juices redistribute for a more tender, succulent slice.
Notes
This versatile meatloaf recipe allows you to switch up the ingredients according to your pantry and dietary preferences. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, a pinch of Italian herbs and salt works wonders. You can also experiment by using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor. The sheet pan approach not only creates a beautifully caramelized crust but also reduces cleanup, making it ideal for busy evenings.