By shaping the meatloaf mixture into small, two-serving loaves, baking time can be reduced by 30 minutes.

Classic Meatloaf

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 cup soft bread crumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 large egg, slightly beaten
2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
2. Reserve 1/4-cup tomato sauce.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, remaining tomato sauce, bread crumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, garlic salt and pepper. Mix lightly but thoroughly.
4. Divide mixture into thirds and shape to form three loaves, each about 1-1/2 inches thick. Place on rack in open roasting pan.
5. Combine reserved tomato sauce, brown sugar and mustard. Spread over top of loaves.
6. Bake in 350ºF (175ºC) oven 1 hour (or until no longer pink in middle and juices run clear). Check with a meat thermometer - should be 160°F (70ºC) in center.

Serves 6.

Tip: To serve cut each meatloaf into 1-inch thick slices.

Tip: Gentle handling when mixing the ground beef with the other ingredients will ensure a moist, tender meatloaf.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Texas Beef Council and Beef It's Whats For Dinner.