Very simple Meatloaf

The remains of our meatloaf which I just managed to hold onto for long enough to photograph

Although this recipe is, by its very nature, larger than one person would need, you could either cut it into slices and freeze some after you have made it, or you could form it into individual patties instead of making a loaf shape and freeze some uncooked, just keep a close eye on the patties whilst they are  cooking  to ensure that they are cooked but not burned.  You could also try halving the amounts of ingredients to produce a smaller version. 

• 1/2 pound of minced beef   (I used about 3/4 pound of mince)
• 2oz breadcrumbs
• 1 onion diced very small
• 1 egg
• App 60mls milk
• mixed herbs
• A good splash of Worcerstershire sauce
• Ketchup
• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)

• Mix all the ingredients except the ketchup, in a basin.  Get your hands in and really squidge it all together, ensuring that the ingredients are well combined.  The mixture should be fairly loose but not runny.
• When that is done put it all together in a loaf tin, (or whatever shaped oven proof dish you have)
• In another bowl mix together around 3/4 to 1 cup of ketchup and another good splashing of Worcestershire sauce, and the mustard if you are using it.
• Spread the sauce mix over the top of the meatloaf
• Put into a preheated oven at 180 degrees, gas mark 4, for 1 hour.

I know most meatloaf recipes call for ketchup, mustard and sugar for the topping, but I think there is already way too much sugar in ketchup and as I didn't have any mustard I substituted the Worcestershire sauce.

I lined my tin with baking paper to make for easier cleaning of the tin.

This recipe couldn't be simpler so have a go  and let me know what you think.


Since posting this I have been experimenting a little.  As I expected the ketchup was a little too sweet for my taste so we have added in French mustard (because it was the only one I had in the cupboard) which was good, and today I have tried it with a mixture of ketchup, Worcerstershire sauce, French mustard and barbecue sauce.  Don't be afraid to  mix and match, trying out different combinations to see which you prefer.