Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1

Chop and prepare all ingredients ahead of time.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, tomato sauce, salt and Italian seasonings.

Step 3

Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated (but don’t overmix or your meatloaf will turn out tough).

Step 4

Label ziptop bags with the contents, date, and cooking directions.

Step 5

Add uncooked meatloaf into the ziptop bag, seal and place in the freezer until ready to use.

Step 6

The night before (or at least an hour prior to cooking dinner), remove the frozen meatloaf from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator (overnight), on the counter or in a sink of cool water. If left on the counter or in a sink of cool water, the meatloaf should defrost in about an hour because it’s so thin.

Step 7

Once the meatloaf mixture is defrosted, preheat the oven to 350°F and grab a standard-size loaf pan and the ketchup (we love using our homemade ketchup).

Step 8

Dump the meatloaf mixture into a loaf pan, pressing firmly to eliminate air pockets.

Step 9

Brush the top with a generous layer of ketchup or other preferred sauce.

Step 10

Slide the meatloaf into a preheated oven and bake at 350°F until the internal temperature of the meatloaf is 160°F.

Step 11

Allow the meatloaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before cutting into it and serving.

Step 12

Top with additional ketchup, if desired, and enjoy!