# Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mixture of ground beef and pork)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup diced bell peppers, 1/4 cup diced mushrooms, etc.
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. **Mix Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Add any optional ingredients, such as chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or diced vegetables, if desired. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
3. **Shape Meatloaf**: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Use your hands to shape it into a loaf shape, pressing it down gently to remove any air pockets.
4. **Bake**: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for 60 to 75 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the top is browned. You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the meatloaf; it should register 160°F (71°C).
5. **Rest**: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the loaf pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes it easier to slice.
6. **Serve**: Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve it warm. You can accompany it with mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, or your favorite side dishes.
### Tips:
- Don't overmix the meat mixture, as this can result in a dense and tough meatloaf. Mix just until all the ingredients are combined.
- Feel free to customize the meatloaf by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or other ingredients. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey, chicken, or lamb.
- Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- Serve meatloaf with your favorite condiments, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or gravy, for extra flavor.
With this classic meatloaf recipe, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences and make it