Meatloaf Recipes – Classic Comfort Food Made Easy
When it comes to hearty comfort food, few dishes hold a candle to classic meatloaf recipes. Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, meatloaf has been a family favorite for generations. Originating in Europe and gaining popularity in America during the 19th century, this dish has become a staple at dinner tables worldwide.
What makes meatloaf so special? It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you like it glazed with ketchup, topped with gravy, or mixed with cheese and herbs, a good meatloaf is the definition of cozy home cooking. Let’s dive into a foolproof recipe you can master at home.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for glaze)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Preheat the oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment.
- Mix ingredients – In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently with your hands until combined (don’t overmix).
- Shape the loaf – Transfer mixture into a loaf pan or shape it free-form on a baking sheet.
- Prepare glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake – Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Glaze again – Spread remaining glaze on top and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.
- Rest & slice – Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing for neat, juicy portions.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Serving Size: 6–8 slices
Tips & Variations
- Cheese Lover’s Meatloaf: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the mix.
- Italian Twist: Use Italian breadcrumbs, add oregano, and top with marinara sauce.
- BBQ Style: Swap ketchup glaze with smoky BBQ sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Grate in carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Moisture Tip: Don’t skip the milk and eggs—they keep the loaf tender.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Fat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free oats or almond flour.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds and use sugar-free ketchup for glaze.
- Low-Sugar: Omit brown sugar in glaze or use a sugar substitute.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk.
Serving Suggestions
This classic meatloaf recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. Leftovers are fantastic in sandwiches, making this recipe a true weeknight winner.
Easy to make, flavorful, and customizable—this meatloaf will quickly become your go-to dinner recipe. Once you try it, you’ll see why it remains a timeless favorite across generations.
FAQ’s
Q1: How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
Use enough binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs to hold it together.
Q2: Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.
Q3: How do I reheat leftover meatloaf?
Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave with a splash of broth for moisture.
Q4: Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Q5: Can I use different meats?
Yes, a mix of beef, pork, and veal adds richness and depth of flavor.
