Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the ideal temperature for baking your meatloaf evenly.

Lightly grease a loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper to make clean-up easier. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it directly on a baking sheet.

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings, and milk. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to a tough meatloaf.

Incorporate the chopped onions into the mixture. You can sauté them first for a milder flavor or mix them in raw for a little more bite. If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, you can add finely chopped carrots or bell peppers.

Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf by hand. Press down gently to ensure it holds together, but don’t compact it too much. This helps the loaf cook evenly.

Spread a generous amount of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a nice tangy flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist while baking. For added flair, you can mix some brown sugar or mustard into the ketchup for a unique twist!

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 75 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you're using a loaf pan, check the meatloaf halfway through and drain any excess fat to keep it from becoming greasy.

After baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and flavorful.