There’s something comforting about a classic meatloaf recipe—maybe it’s the warm aroma filling your kitchen, or that first hearty slice with creamy mashed potatoes on the side. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf brings satisfaction without stress. The best part? It’s forgiving, flexible, and packed with flavor. I still remember the first meatloaf I made as a teen—too much ketchup, not enough breadcrumbs—but hey, that’s how we learn. Now, you’ll skip the trial and go straight to success.
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe
This meatloaf recipe will quickly become your weeknight favorite, and here’s why:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and one bowl, even first-timers can nail it.
- Flavorful: A mix of seasonings, onions, and tangy glaze gives it a bold taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Feeds a family without breaking the bank.
- Meal Prep Hero: Slices beautifully for sandwiches or next-day dinners.
Trust me—once you’ve tried this meatloaf, it’ll be on regular rotation in your kitchen.
A Few Fun Facts About Meatloaf
The meatloaf recipe has a surprisingly rich history. Here are a few bites of trivia:
- Ancient Origins: Romans had a version of meatloaf combining meats, bread, and wine.
- German Influence: Modern meatloaf draws from European dishes like Falscher Hase (“Fake Rabbit”).
- American Classic: It gained popularity in the U.S. during the Great Depression for being affordable and filling.
- Family-Specific: Every family seems to guard its own “secret” meatloaf recipe—this could be yours!
Ingredients for the Best Meatloaf
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
How to Make the Perfect Meatloaf Recipe
- Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk. This keeps your meatloaf moist.
- Combine Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Add the egg-milk mixture. Use your hands to blend gently—don’t overmix!
- Shape the Loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in the pan.
- Make the Glaze: Stir ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a bowl. Spread half over the meatloaf.
- Bake: Cook for 55–65 minutes, adding the remaining glaze halfway through. Check that the internal temperature hits 160°F.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Meatloaf Recipe Tips and Twists
Here’s how to upgrade your meatloaf recipe experience:
Pro Tips:
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture.
- Let the meat come to room temp before mixing.
- Line your pan—cleanup will be easier!
- Don’t skip the resting time.
- Add finely grated carrot or zucchini to sneak in veggies.
Variations to Try:
- Italian-Style: Add parmesan and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup with smoky BBQ sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep your meatloaf recipe fresh and convenient with these simple tips:
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F wrapped in foil, or microwave in 30-second bursts.
Make-Ahead: Prep the loaf (unbaked), wrap tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead—or freeze for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meatloaf
This meatloaf recipe shines with a few simple pairings:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate classic sidekick.
- Roasted Broccoli and Carrots: Try our Roasted Broccoli and Carrots for a healthy contrast.
- Tangy Cucumber Salad: Adds freshness and crunch.
- Crusty Bread: Soak up the juices with a slice of Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread.
FAQ About Meatloaf Recipe
Can I use only ground beef?
Yes, just make sure it’s not too lean—80/20 is ideal for moisture.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Try crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze before or after baking for easy meals later.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check your sauces for hidden gluten.
Why is my meatloaf dry?
Too much baking or not enough moisture (eggs, milk) can cause dryness.
Enjoy Your Meatloaf Recipe Tonight!
There you have it—an easy, satisfying meatloaf recipe that’s hard to mess up and easy to fall in love with. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and earns you the “best home cook” badge. Whether you serve it traditional-style or mix it up with your favorite twist, this meatloaf is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef 80/20
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Whisk egg and milk in a small bowl.
- Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add egg-milk mixture; combine gently.
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in the pan.
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Spread half over the meatloaf recipe.
- Bake for 60 minutes, adding remaining glaze halfway. Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sodium: 720mg
Explore More Recipes
Want to build a complete comfort-food menu? Try these next:
- Pair with creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy for the ultimate duo.
- Need a veggie side? Go for our Roasted Broccoli and Carrots—bright and flavorful.
- For a sweet finish, bake our Easy Blueberry Muffins.
- Turn leftovers into lunch with this Grilled Chicken Wraps Recipe.
- Planning ahead? Freeze some and enjoy later with our Cheddar Bay Biscuits.