The Best Meatloaf Recipe

There's something magical about the smell of meatloaf baking in the oven. The savory aroma of seasoned beef mingled with tangy ketchup glaze fills the house, wrapping you in a warm, nostalgic hug. Whether it's a Sunday supper or a hearty weekday meal, this classic recipe brings people together around the table.

I first perfected this recipe during a cold winter evening when I wanted something hearty and comforting. It quickly became a staple in my household, requested at least once a month. Now, I’m thrilled to share it with you! Let’s dive in.

Why You'll Love This Meatloaf Recipe

Prepare to meet your new favorite meatloaf recipe! This dish isn’t just delicious – it’s an easy, foolproof way to bring a little extra love to your dinner table.

First and foremost, this meatloaf is incredibly flavorful. With the perfect balance of savory spices, sautéed vegetables, and a sweet-tangy glaze, each bite is bursting with comfort.

It's also simple to make, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned pros. Just mix, shape, and bake—no special equipment or advanced techniques required.

This recipe is a budget-friendly option. Using ground beef and pantry staples, it’s an economical way to feed a hungry family or have leftovers for the week.

Lastly, it's versatile. You can adapt it with your favorite seasonings, swap out ingredients, or even sneak in some extra veggies without anyone noticing.

Ready to experience the magic? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each carefully chosen to create a meatloaf that’s moist, flavorful, and satisfying.

• Ground Beef: Go for 80/20 ground beef. The fat content keeps the meatloaf moist and tender without being greasy. If you prefer leaner beef, consider mixing in a little ground pork for extra flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: These act as the binding agent, ensuring the meatloaf holds together while staying tender. Regular or panko breadcrumbs work beautifully. For a gluten-free option, try almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Milk: A small amount of milk is added to soften the breadcrumbs, preventing the meatloaf from becoming dense or dry. You can use dairy-free milk if needed.
• Onion and Garlic: Finely diced onion and minced garlic provide an aromatic, savory base. Make sure to sauté them before adding to the mixture for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Eggs: The glue that holds everything together! Two large eggs ensure the meatloaf maintains its shape without crumbling.
• Ketchup Glaze: A mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar creates the iconic meatloaf topping. It's sweet, tangy, and caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

For equipment, you’ll need a large mixing bowl, a loaf pan or baking sheet, and some parchment paper for easy cleanup.

How to Make This Meatloaf Recipe

Making this meatloaf is as simple as mixing, shaping, and baking. Here’s how you can whip up this comforting classic in just a few easy steps.

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. Meanwhile, sauté your finely diced onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil until soft and fragrant. Let them cool slightly.

2. Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, sautéed onions and garlic, and your favorite seasonings (I recommend salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce). Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.

3. Shape and Glaze

Shape the mixture into a loaf on your prepared baking sheet, or press it evenly into a loaf pan. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Spread half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). About 15 minutes before it’s done, spread the remaining glaze over the top to caramelize.

5. Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice tender and juicy.

The result? A perfectly seasoned, tender meatloaf with a glossy glaze that’s sure to impress.

Storage Options

This meatloaf is fantastic for leftovers! Here’s how to store it so you can enjoy it again.

• Refrigerator: Store sliced meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Tip: To retain moisture, add a small splash of water or beef broth to the meatloaf before reheating in the oven at 325°F (165°C).

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this meatloaf recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to customize it:

• Healthier Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Add a touch of olive oil to maintain moisture.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix shredded cheddar or parmesan into the meat mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Finely grate carrots or zucchini and mix them in for added nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha into the glaze for a little heat.
• Low-Carb: Use almond flour or ground pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs to make it keto-friendly.

The possibilities are endless—don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Conclusion

This meatloaf recipe is everything you could want from comfort food: simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it with classic mashed potatoes or sneaking leftovers into a sandwich, it’s bound to become a household favorite.

Ready to give it a try? Your kitchen is about to smell amazing. Let me know how it turns out!

Print