A delicious and hearty meatloaf recipe perfect for family dinners.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, diced onion, grated carrot, and breadcrumbs.
Mix gently to avoid overworking the ingredients, which can make the meatloaf dense.
Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix until just combined.
Use your hands for better control, but don't overmix.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
Ensure the loaf is evenly shaped for consistent cooking.
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar to create the glaze.
Adjust the sweetness of the glaze to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Use a spoon or brush to ensure even coverage.
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until fully cooked.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender.