Description
Learn how to make delicious Homemade Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or half beef and half ground pork for extra flavor)
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers as a substitute)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup whole milk (or any milk you have on hand)
- ½ cup ketchup, divided (reserve half for the glaze)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Sandwich buns or sturdy bread slices, for serving
- Optional toppings: sliced cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, or caramelized onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to keep cleanup easy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (and pork, if using), fresh breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, and milk. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
- Add ¼ cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. Mix lightly again until evenly distributed. This step is where the balance comes in—you want enough seasoning to keep every bite flavorful without overwhelming.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape directly on your baking sheet or press it into your loaf pan. Make sure it’s compact but not too tight.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining ¼ cup ketchup with a tablespoon of water or a splash of vinegar for a tangy glaze. Spread this evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). About halfway through baking, baste the loaf with more glaze if you like it extra saucy.
- Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial—it lets the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and easier to slice.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces, then assemble your sandwich on buns or bread. Add your favorite toppings—my son Eli loves a simple slice of cheddar and a leaf of lettuce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Homemade Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe, recipe, cooking, food
