Classic Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
• 20 saltine crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• For Topping:
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Gather the ingredients. Pre-heat the oven to 350 F.
2. Grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2-inch loaf pan or line it with foil and then lightly grease it. Alternatively, for a free-form loaf, line a rimmed baking pan with foil.
3. In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 pounds ground beef with the 20 saltine crackers (crushed), 1/2 cup finely chopped onion , 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper , 1 large egg , 1 teaspoon paprika , 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder , 1/4 teaspoon salt , 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme , 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper , 1/3 cup of ketchup , 2 tablespoons milk , and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce .
4. Pack the meat mixture into the loaf pan or shape it and place it on the baking pan.
5. Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour. Carefully pour excess grease into a can or jar (dispose of it in the trash after it cools).
6. Spread the meatloaf with 1/2 to 3/4 cup of ketchup or barbecue sauce and continue baking for 15 minutes longer, or until the meatloaf registers at least 160 F on an instant-read food thermometer inserted into the center. (If you have instead swapped ground turkey or chicken for the beef, cook the loaf to an internal temperature of 165 F.)
7. Let the meatloaf rest for ten minutes before slicing so it holds together well. Then, serve and enjoy!