Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Few dishes embody homestyle comfort quite like a classic meatloaf. With its juicy interior, savory glaze, and that nostalgic aroma that fills your kitchen, it’s the kind of meal that never goes out of style. Whether you grew up eating it every Sunday or you’re discovering it for the first time, meatloaf has a way of turning a simple pound of ground beef into something truly special.

This Classic Meatloaf recipe is hearty, tender, and endlessly customizable. It’s the definition of comfort food — a golden-brown loaf with a perfectly balanced glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and rich. The best part? It’s easy to make and uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

From weeknight dinners to cozy family gatherings, meatloaf never fails to bring everyone to the table. Let’s dive into the details behind this timeless favorite and learn exactly how to make it moist, flavorful, and foolproof every time.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Meatloaf

• Perfectly moist and tender – The combination of milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs keeps the meatloaf juicy without being greasy.
• A foolproof glaze – Sweet ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar create a caramelized topping that seals in flavor.
• Customizable to your diet – Make it leaner with turkey or go keto with almond flour and sugar-free ketchup.
• Family-friendly and nostalgic – This recipe brings back that homemade, comforting taste everyone craves.
• Fantastic leftovers – Slice it up for sandwiches or reheat it for quick meals that taste even better the next day.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor – Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 8 people and delivers that perfect balance of savory meat, aromatic seasoning, and tangy glaze. Below is the full, exact ingredient list — no changes, no confusion.

Meatloaf Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

Meatloaf Glaze

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder

Yield

Makes 8 servings
Each serving: 383 kcal

Tools & Equipment Needed

Having the right kitchen tools makes this recipe even easier to prepare:

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or gloved hands (for mixing the meat)
• 9×5-inch loaf pan or foil-lined baking sheet
• Small bowl (for glaze)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Meat thermometer (for checking internal temperature)
• Basting brush (for applying glaze)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for easy cleanup)

Step-by-Step Instructions

This classic meatloaf recipe is as straightforward as it gets. Follow these exact steps for the perfect loaf — moist inside, caramelized on top, and packed with rich, homestyle flavor.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil. If you prefer a crispier exterior, use the baking sheet method; for softer edges, go with the loaf pan.

Step 2: Combine the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, add:

• Ground beef
• Finely chopped onion
• Eggs
• Milk
• Breadcrumbs
• Minced garlic
• ¼ cup ketchup
• Fresh parsley
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning

Use a spoon or your hands to gently mix everything together. Avoid overmixing — that’s the secret to keeping your meatloaf tender. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or sheet. Shape it into a compact, even loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Make sure it’s smooth on top for even glazing.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder

Whisk until smooth and glossy. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Apply the First Glaze Layer

Brush half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. This layer will bake into the meat, adding deep flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove it carefully and brush on the remaining glaze.

Step 7: Finish Baking

Return to the oven and bake for another 15–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The glaze should be glossy and caramelized.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This step is essential — it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice stays moist.

Slice into thick pieces and serve warm. Enjoy it alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Tips & Variations

• Keto Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour and use sugar-free ketchup in both the meatloaf and glaze.
• Healthier Twist: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and add finely grated carrots or zucchini to sneak in veggies.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute Panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
• Extra Moist Meatloaf: Mix in ½ cup shredded cheese or a spoonful of sour cream for extra richness.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or smoked paprika to the glaze for subtle heat.
• Double the Glaze: If you love that sticky-sweet topping, double the glaze ingredients and serve extra on the side.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This meatloaf is the definition of comfort food flavor — savory and rich with subtle sweetness from the glaze. The Worcestershire sauce adds depth, the onion and garlic lend aroma, and the ketchup glaze creates a mouthwatering balance of tangy and sweet. The texture is tender yet firm enough to slice cleanly, with that perfect bite every time.

Best Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate pairing for soaking up those savory juices.
• Garlic Green Beans or Roasted Carrots – For a crisp, colorful side.
• Buttered Corn or Peas – Classic choices that complement the sweetness of the glaze.
• Simple Garden Salad – Adds freshness and crunch to balance the meal.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	383 kcal
Carbohydrates	18 g
Protein	23 g
Fat	24 g
Saturated Fat	9 g
Cholesterol	85 mg
Sodium	439 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	10 g
Calcium	82 mg
Iron	3 mg

This dish is naturally nut-free and can be made gluten-free or low-carb with substitutions.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Freeze Unbaked: Shape the loaf, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheat Leftovers: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes, or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

FAQs

1. How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
Make sure to use the full amount of eggs and breadcrumbs. They act as binders, holding everything together.

2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Just note that leaner meats may need a bit more moisture — try adding an extra tablespoon of milk or a touch of olive oil.

3. Can I make this meatloaf without a loaf pan?
Yes. Shape it into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet. This allows the glaze to caramelize more evenly.

4. Why did my meatloaf turn out dry?
It was likely overbaked or overmixed. Always check the internal temperature and mix just until combined.

5. Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers blend beautifully and add moisture and nutrition.

6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Simply bake two smaller loaves or one large loaf for a longer time (up to 75 minutes), checking for doneness.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Task	Time
1	Prep ingredients	10 min
2	Mix meatloaf	7 min
3	Shape and glaze	5 min
4	Bake first round	45 min
5	Add final glaze	1 min
6	Finish baking	15–30 min
7	Rest before serving	10–15 min
Total	Prep + Cook + Rest	~1 hour 20 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve your classic meatloaf warm with mashed potatoes, a drizzle of the extra glaze, and a side of buttered green beans. For a more rustic presentation, slice thick pieces and stack them over creamy mashed potatoes, then spoon glaze over the top for that restaurant-style look.

Leftover meatloaf is perfect for sandwiches — toast two slices of bread, add a warm meatloaf slice, a bit of glaze or mayo, and crisp lettuce for the ultimate comfort lunch.

Recipe Variations

1. BBQ Meatloaf: Replace ketchup with your favorite smoky barbecue sauce for a tangy twist.
2. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or cheddar in the center before baking.
3. Mushroom & Onion Meatloaf: Sauté mushrooms and onions first, then fold them into the meat mixture for umami richness.
4. Mini Meatloaf Muffins: Divide the mixture into muffin tins and bake for about 25 minutes for perfect individual portions.

Ingredient Spotlight: Ground Beef

The key to a truly great meatloaf is quality ground beef.

• Best Fat Ratio: Choose 80–85% lean beef for optimal flavor and moisture. Too lean, and your loaf may turn dry; too fatty, and it can become greasy.
• Storage: Keep ground beef refrigerated and use within 1–2 days of purchase. If freezing, store in airtight packaging for up to 3 months.
• Enhancement Tip: Adding Worcestershire sauce not only boosts umami flavor but also enhances the beef’s natural savoriness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat makes the texture dense. Mix gently and stop once combined.
• Check Doneness Properly: Always use a meat thermometer — 160°F (71°C) ensures it’s fully cooked but still juicy.
• Let It Rest: This step is vital. Resting prevents juices from running out when slicing.
• Glaze Twice: Applying glaze both before and during baking ensures maximum flavor and that signature glossy finish.
• Use Fresh Breadcrumbs for Tenderness: If you don’t have Panko, pulse fresh bread in a food processor.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate: Store cooked meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze (Cooked): Wrap slices individually or freeze the whole loaf. Defrost overnight and reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
• Freeze (Uncooked): Shape the loaf, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze raw. Thaw completely before baking.
• Avoid Microwaving Excessively: It can dry out the meatloaf. Instead, reheat gently covered with foil.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	383	—
Protein	23 g	46%
Carbohydrates	18 g	6%
Fat	24 g	31%
Fiber	1 g	4%
Sugar	10 g	11%
Sodium	439 mg	19%
Iron	3 mg	17%
Calcium	82 mg	6%

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Conclusion

When it comes to comfort food classics, nothing beats a homemade meatloaf. It’s hearty, flavorful, and steeped in nostalgia — a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. With its juicy interior, sweet-tangy glaze, and make-ahead convenience, this Classic Meatloaf recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.

Serve it hot from the oven with creamy mashed potatoes or slice it cold for the perfect sandwich the next day. Either way, it’s a timeless favorite that proves simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary flavor.

Try this recipe once, and you’ll see why generations have cherished this comforting classic.

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