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Hairy Bikers American Meatloaf Recipe

Hairy Bikers American Meatloaf Recipe

Love a hearty, juicy meatloaf? This Hairy Bikers American Meatloaf Recipe brings classic American comfort to your kitchen. It's simple to make at home. Moist inside and crispy top—pure bliss!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course  Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef 80% lean
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or panko
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup ketchup plus extra for topping
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp mustard yellow or Dijon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper green or red
  • For glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp vinegar

Instructions
 

Preheat and Prep

  • Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly. Chop onion, garlic, and bell pepper fine. This takes 5 minutes. It builds great flavor fast.

Sauté the Veggies

  • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook 4-5 minutes until soft. Stir often. Let cool slightly. Veggies add moisture—no dry meatloaf!

Mix the Meat Base

  • In a large bowl, beat eggs with milk. Add breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well. Crumble in ground beef. Add cooled veggies. Gently mix with hands. Don't overwork it.

Shape the Loaf

  • Pack mixture into the loaf pan evenly. Smooth the top. This ensures even cooking. Tap pan gently to remove air pockets. Ready for the oven now!

Make and Add Glaze

  • Mix 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a bowl. Spread half over the meatloaf top. Bake for 60 minutes. Midway, add more glaze. It caramelizes beautifully.

Check and Rest

  • Meatloaf is done when internal temp hits 160°F. Or juices run clear. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy. Perfect every time!

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Avoid guesswork.
  • Soak breadcrumbs in milk first. Keeps meatloaf moist.
  • Add grated carrot or zucchini for hidden veggies. Kids love it!
  • Variation: Swap beef for turkey. Lighter twist on Hairy Bikers style.
  • Spice it up: Mix in 1 tsp chili powder for a smoky kick.
  • Make mini loaves in muffin tins. Cooks faster—30 minutes!
  • Double the glaze. It's the sweet-tangy star.
  • Let leftovers shine in sandwiches next day.
Keyword Hairy Bikers American Meatloaf Recipe