There’s something timeless about a classic meatloaf that brings back memories of home-cooked dinners. But not all meatloaves are created equal! So here I present the absolute BEST meatloaf recipe.
Home cooking doesn’t get much easier than this simple meatloaf. Using lean ground beef and just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. The secret is in the perfect blend of meats and seasonings.
Every great meatloaf starts with quality ingredients and a little love.
My main recipe combines traditional techniques with a modern twist that elevates the classic dish. Prepare to transform your dinner routine with this crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
But I also give you 4 variations below the main recipe!
The caramelized glaze is what makes this meatloaf truly special. It adds a tangy sweetness that takes the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Get ready to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
A Hearty Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Classic meatloaf has a special place in many hearts, often reminiscent of comforting family dinners. This dish highlights rich, savory flavors paired with a sweet and sticky glaze, creating a delightful contrast that excites the taste buds.
The preparation of this meatloaf is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings ensures each slice is tender and juicy. It’s the perfect meal for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
Using quality ingredients is key to achieving a flavorful meatloaf. Ground beef serves as the base, providing richness and depth. Bread crumbs help bind the mixture while adding texture, while finely chopped onions impart sweetness and moisture.
The glaze is where the magic happens – a blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce creates that shiny, caramelized topping. This not only enhances the look but also adds a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Creating the Perfect Glaze
The glaze is arguably the star of this meatloaf. It’s simple to make yet results in a stunning finish. By mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, you create a sweet and tangy layer that complements the savory meat perfectly.
Applying this glaze halfway through the baking process allows it to caramelize beautifully, resulting in a glossy top that draws you in. This final touch transforms an ordinary meatloaf into an eye-catching centerpiece.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
This meatloaf is delightful on its own, but serving it with sides can create a more rounded meal. Mashed potatoes provide a creamy complement, soaking up any extra sauce from the meatloaf.
Adding a side of green peas not only brings color to the plate but also adds a fresh crunch, balancing the dish’s richness. Together, these components create a warm and inviting setting that’s perfect for sharing.
A Hearty Classic Meatloaf Recipe
This classic meatloaf is rich, savory, and bursting with flavor, complemented by a sticky, sweet glaze that adds a delightful contrast. Each slice is tender and juicy, making it a satisfying and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, eggs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After 30 minutes, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should be 160°F or 70°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
Storage Tips
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container. Makes delicious meatloaf sandwiches the next day. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Meatloaf Variations to Try
Turkey Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground turkey
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, eggs, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and fresh parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into a loaf. Create extra surface area for the glaze to caramelize.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After 30 minutes, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf.
- Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Turkey requires a higher internal temperature than beef.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with green beans or creamy mashed potatoes.
Italian Sausage Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato paste (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, milk, green bell pepper, onion, tomato sauce, eggs, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into a loaf. Create extra surface area for the glaze to caramelize.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together tomato paste, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After 30 minutes, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf.
- Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with green beans or creamy mashed potatoes.
BBQ Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, bell pepper, eggs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, cheddar cheese, and parsley. Mix until well incorporated.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking sheet and form it into a loaf shape, about 8 inches long. Flatten slightly to allow even cooking and better glaze coverage.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Remove and brush the remaining glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Low-Fat Lean Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1/4 cup low-fat milk
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, finely grated
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, oats, milk, onion, carrots, celery, egg whites, tomato paste, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the Loaf: Place the mixture on the prepared baking sheet and shape into a compact loaf, roughly 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
- Bake: Bake for 45 minutes, then remove and spread the remaining glaze on top. Bake an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with steamed vegetables or roasted sweet potatoes.
Final Thoughts
Meatloaf isn’t just a meal – it’s a comfort food that brings families together. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. Leftover meatloaf makes incredible sandwiches the next day.
Store your remaining meatloaf in an airtight container for easy reheating. The tangy glaze keeps its delicious flavor even after refrigeration. Serve with green beans or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Experiment with the recipe to make it your own. Personal preference is key in creating the perfect meatloaf. Enjoy your new favorite family dinner!
This recipe is part of my 119 Hearty Winter Recipes You’ll Love When It Gets Cold. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!
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