Classic Meatloaf Recipe

The Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful Family Favorite

Meatloaf represents the quintessential comfort food that brings families together around warm dinner tables.

Hearty and satisfying, this classic dish embodies traditional home cooking with its rich, savory profile.

Generations have cherished this meal as a reliable staple that upgrades simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

The robust blend of ground meats, herbs, and seasonings creates a deeply flavorful experience that resonates with nostalgia.

Tender and juicy, this culinary creation offers a perfect balance between rustic simplicity and sophisticated taste.

Home cooks have long appreciated the versatility and ease of preparing this timeless recipe.

Your dinner table will come alive with memories and warmth when you serve this beloved classic.

Classic Meatloaf Ingredients

Meat and Protein:
  • Ground Beef: Rich, flavorful protein base for the classic meatloaf with good fat content for moisture.
  • Eggs: Binding agent that helps hold the meatloaf together and adds richness.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides deep, savory flavor to the meat mixture.
  • Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the overall meatloaf taste.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Tangy condiment that boosts umami and adds complexity to the meat.
  • Ketchup: Sweet and tangy sauce that contributes moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
  • Bread Crumbs: Helps absorb moisture and keeps the meatloaf tender and well-structured.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a softer texture in the meatloaf.
  • Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Ketchup: Base for the glaze that provides sweetness and color.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds caramelization and sweet depth to the meatloaf topping.
  • Mustard: Introduces a tangy element to balance the sweetness of the glaze.

Step-by-Step Classic Meatloaf Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, blend the following ingredients:
  • Ground beef
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped onion
  • Bread crumbs
  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Ketchup
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Seasonings

Step 3: Marinate the Meat

Let the meat mixture rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour (or overnight for enhanced flavor).

Step 4: Shape and Initial Baking

  • Shape the meat mixture into a loaf
  • Place on a parchment-lined baking dish
  • Bake in the 350°F oven for 45 minutes

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

Mix the glaze ingredients in a small bowl until well blended.

Step 6: Finish Baking

  • Remove meatloaf from the oven
  • Spoon glaze evenly over the top
  • Increase oven temperature to 400°F
  • Return meatloaf to oven
  • Bake for an additional 15 minutes
  • Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F

Step 7: Rest and Serve

  • Let meatloaf cool for 5 minutes
  • Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes

Classic Meatloaf Tips for Perfection

  • Chill for Maximum Flavor: Let the meat mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help ingredients meld and enhance overall taste.
  • Prevent Dry Meatloaf: Use a mixture of ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20) to keep the meatloaf moist and juicy.
  • Ensure Even Cooking: Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent a tough texture; gently combine ingredients until just incorporated.
  • Glaze Like a Pro: Brush the glaze evenly and generously during the final baking stage for a caramelized, flavorful exterior.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the meatloaf reaches 165 degrees F for safe and perfectly cooked results.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Classic Meatloaf

  • Refrigerate leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within two hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days. Store slices separately for easier reheating and to maintain moisture.
  • Microwave method: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Check the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F to ensure food safety.
  • Oven reheat technique: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, place meatloaf slices in a baking dish with a splash of beef broth to prevent drying, cover with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely.

What to Serve with Classic Meatloaf

  • Pair with Bold Red Wine: Complement the rich, savory meatloaf with a robust cabernet sauvignon or zinfandel that matches its hearty flavor profile, cutting through the meat's density and enhancing the meal's overall taste experience.
  • Serve with Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Create a classic comfort food combination by matching the meatloaf with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes that absorb the delicious glaze and provide a perfect textural contrast.
  • Add Roasted Vegetable Medley: Balance the protein-heavy main dish with a colorful side of roasted carrots, brussels sprouts, and parsnips, which bring fresh, caramelized notes and additional nutritional value to the plate.
  • Complement with Tangy Coleslaw: Introduce a crisp, acidic element through a fresh coleslaw that cuts through the meatloaf's richness, providing a light and refreshing counterpoint to the warm, dense main course.

Classic Meatloaf Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Southwest Meatloaf: Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, and swap ketchup for salsa in the mixture. Replace traditional glaze with a chipotle-based sauce for extra kick.
  • Mediterranean Herb Meatloaf: Incorporate feta cheese, chopped spinach, and oregano into the meat mixture. Top with a sun-dried tomato and olive glaze for Mediterranean flair.
  • Turkey Lean Meatloaf: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a healthier option. Mix in grated zucchini and use whole wheat breadcrumbs to enhance nutritional value. Create a lighter honey-mustard glaze for complementary flavors.
  • Italian-Inspired Meatloaf: Blend ground beef with Italian sausage, add minced garlic, basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with marinara sauce during the final baking stage for a rich, robust taste.

Why Classic Meatloaf Hits the Spot

  • Savor Hearty Comfort: This classic meatloaf delivers ultimate home-cooked comfort with its rich, juicy blend of ground beef and savory seasonings that remind you of warm family dinners.
  • Master Effortless Cooking: The simple preparation method makes this recipe beginner-friendly, requiring minimal cooking skills while producing a deliciously impressive main dish that looks professionally made.
  • Enjoy Flavor-Packed Technique: The two-stage baking process with a special glaze creates a mouthwatering caramelized exterior that locks in moisture, giving each slice a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender meat.
  • Customize with Ease: This versatile recipe allows endless variations by switching up seasonings, adding different vegetables, or experimenting with glaze ingredients, making it adaptable to personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
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Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Classic Meatloaf Recipe


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4.6 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Hearty American Classic Meatloaf delivers comfort with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings blended into a robust dinner centerpiece. Juicy slices paired with creamy mashed potatoes complete this nostalgic meal that warms souls and satisfies hunger.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Protein:

  • 2 lbs (907 grams) ground beef (8590 % lean)
  • 2 large eggs

Aromatic and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 cup onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain, panko or seasoned)
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried or fresh basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried or fresh oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Sauce and Seasoning:

  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 2 teaspoons cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Chill the ground beef mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing flavors to meld and develop a more cohesive texture.
  2. Thoroughly combine ground beef, minced garlic, diced onion, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  4. Gently form the meat mixture into a compact loaf shape, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can result in a tough texture.
  5. Transfer the shaped meatloaf to the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform height for even cooking.
  6. Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, allowing the meat to cook through and develop a rich, golden exterior.
  7. While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients in a small bowl until thoroughly blended and smooth.
  8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 45 minutes and generously brush the prepared glaze over the entire surface.
  9. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and return the meatloaf to the oven.
  10. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) when checked with a meat thermometer.
  11. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 7 minutes after removing from the oven, which allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender result.
  12. Slice the meatloaf into even portions and serve alongside your preferred side dishes, enjoying the rich, comforting flavors.

Notes

  • Maximize flavor by letting the meat mixture rest in the refrigerator, allowing ingredients to meld together and develop a richer taste profile.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F, preventing any risk of foodborne illness.
  • Create a glossy, caramelized exterior by applying the glaze during the final baking stage, which adds a delicious sweet and tangy finish.
  • Choose lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to balance moisture and prevent the meatloaf from becoming too greasy.
  • Opt for parchment paper or a lined baking dish to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it retain juices and make slicing cleaner and more precise.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Simple Everyday Recipes, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Creative Meal Planning, Recipe Testing and Improvement

Education

Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wisconsin

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Practical culinary training, fundamental cooking techniques, meal planning, and using fresh, local ingredients.

Lake Superior College, Duluth, Minnesota

  • Program: Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems
  • Focus: Cooking methods that promote sustainability, farm-to-table practices, and eco-friendly meal creation.

Lucas Bennett’s cooking journey started in his parents’ kitchen, where he learned to prepare tasty, no-fuss meals from scratch. His culinary passion led him to Fox Valley Technical College, where he gained practical cooking skills.
He then expanded his focus on sustainability at Lake Superior College. Today, Lucas shares easy, approachable recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

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