IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Easy Classic Meatloaf

Elizabeth Mayhew, meatloaf 3 ways.
Elizabeth Mayhew, meatloaf 3 ways.Nathan Congleton / TODAY
Cook Time:
1 hr
Prep Time:
10 mins
Servings:
6-8
RATE THIS RECIPE
(95)

Chef notes

This is what most people think of as a true meatloaf. You can leave off the bacon if you don't want it, but it looks pretty impressive with it on (especially if you basket weave the bacon!) and it adds great flavor to the meat.

Technique tip: Lay 4 pieces of bacon horizontally next to each other on a cutting board, weave 5 pieces of bacon through them, creating a basket weave. Invert cutting board, draping the bacon over the glazed loaf. 

Swap option: You can use panko or crushed crackers in lieu of traditional breadcrumbs.

Ingredients

For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 4 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Meatloaf
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 pounds meatloaf mix (equal parts ground chuck, pork, and veal)
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1/2-3/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 9 pieces thin sliced bacon

Preparation

Make the glaze

In a small bowl, combine ketchup and brown sugar. Set aside.

Make the meatloaf

1.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil and set aside.

2.

In a small bowl, combine eggs, yogurt, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt and pepper. Set mixture aside.

3.

In a large bowl, combine meat, garlic, onion and parsley. Add egg mixture and mix to combine. Add breadcrumbs until the mixture no longer sticks to the bowl.

4.

Turn mixture out onto a foil-lined baking sheet and shape into a loaf, approximately 9- by 5-inches. Brush loaf with half of the glaze. Top with bacon slices (you can also weave the bacon on a cutting board and invert on top of loaf) and tuck ends under loaf. Bake for approximately one hour until bacon is crisp and until the internal temperature of the loaf registers 150 degrees on an instant read thermometer.

5.

Remove from oven and let cool for 15 minutes. Slice and serve with remaining glaze.