Step 1 of 4

Mix the loaf with a light hand

Heat the oven to 375°F. Mix the beef, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper together with your hands, stopping the moment it comes together.

— Overworking the meat is what makes a meatloaf dense and rubbery. It should still look loose and a little ragged.