Classic meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and always satisfying. This beloved dish combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, savory seasonings, and a sweet, tangy glaze to create a moist and flavorful loaf. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday family dinners, or casual potlucks. With its familiar taste and easy preparation, this meatloaf is a go-to recipe that never disappoints.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
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1½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (preferably 80/20)
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1 large egg
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⅓ cup milk
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½ cup plain breadcrumbs
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or ½ tsp garlic powder + ½ tsp onion powder)
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½ cup finely chopped onion
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1 teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
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½ cup ketchup
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon yellow mustard (optional)
Directions
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. -
Combine with Ground Beef:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef. Pour in the whisked liquid and dry breadcrumb mixture. Fold in the chopped onion and mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. -
Shape the Loaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan or baking sheet. Shape into a loaf approximately 4 inches wide and 8 inches long. -
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard (if using). -
First Bake:
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 50 minutes. -
Final Glaze and Bake:
Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf, and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). -
Rest and Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and improves slice integrity.
Nutrients (Approximate per serving – based on 7 servings)
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Calories: 295 kcal
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Protein: 20 g
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Carbohydrates: 13 g
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Fat: 18 g
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Saturated Fat: 7 g
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Cholesterol: 85 mg
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Sodium: 530 mg
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 5 g
Why It’s Perfect for All Occasions
Classic meatloaf isn’t just for weeknight dinners—though it certainly excels there. Its versatility and universal appeal make it perfect for:
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Family Dinners: A hit with both kids and adults, meatloaf pairs well with comforting sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or mac and cheese.
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Potlucks and Gatherings: Easily sliced and served, meatloaf is ideal for sharing at community or family events.
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Meal Prep: It holds up beautifully as leftovers, making it a smart choice for lunches or repurposed meals throughout the week.
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Budget-Friendly Cooking: With minimal, inexpensive ingredients, it’s one of the most cost-effective main courses you can make without sacrificing flavor.
Its ease of preparation and familiarity make it a go-to dish when you want something dependable yet comforting.
Cultural Significance and Generational Love
For many, meatloaf is more than a recipe—it’s a connection to tradition. It’s the dish Grandma made every Sunday, or the first thing you learned to cook with a parent. In a fast-paced world of culinary experimentation and global fusion, meatloaf offers a taste of home, a reminder that simple food, done right, can still steal the show.
It also bridges generations. The same recipe that your grandmother made decades ago can still delight your children today. That kind of longevity in the kitchen is rare—and it’s worth celebrating.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf Experience
Here are a few tips that can take your meatloaf from good to exceptional:
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the loaf dense.
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Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking ensures it holds its shape and retains its juices.
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Choose the Right Beef: Ground beef with about 20% fat (like an 80/20 blend) gives the best balance of moisture and flavor.
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Elevate with Add-ins: While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can customize it with add-ins like shredded cheese, finely diced bell peppers, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Ideas
Classic meatloaf is endlessly adaptable when it comes to sides. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
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Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: The ultimate pairing—creamy mashed potatoes balance the savory meatloaf for a traditional plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, Brussels sprouts, or squash bring color and nutrition to the table.
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Cornbread or Dinner Rolls: Soak up that extra glaze or gravy with some warm, buttery bread.
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Macaroni and Cheese: If you’re leaning into full-on comfort food mode, this indulgent side dish won’t disappoint.
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Garden Salad: For a lighter touch, pair with a crisp salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Leftovers: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
One of meatloaf’s greatest advantages is how well it keeps. In fact, many people argue that meatloaf tastes even better the next day. Slice it up for sandwiches with lettuce and tomato, crumble it into a pasta sauce or chili, or serve it with eggs for a hearty breakfast hash.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap it tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap.
Modern Variations
Though the classic beef version reigns supreme, meatloaf is a surprisingly adaptable recipe base. Here are some variations you can explore:
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Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: A leaner alternative, often lighter but still flavorful when seasoned well.
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Vegetarian Meatloaf: Use lentils, mushrooms, beans, and grains for a meatless version with plenty of protein.
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Mini Meatloaves: Great for individual servings, portion control, or speeding up cooking time.
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Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: A smoky twist that adds extra richness and presentation flair.
Each variation maintains the comforting structure of the original but lets you play with flavors and dietary needs.
Conclusion
In a culinary world that often favors the new and novel, the enduring popularity of classic meatloaf is a testament to its deep-rooted appeal. It’s more than just ground beef and ketchup—it’s the smell of home, the taste of tradition, and the comfort of consistency in an ever-changing world.
This classic meatloaf recipe doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it perfects it. With straightforward ingredients, dependable flavor, and endless versatility, it deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight, hosting friends for a cozy gathering, or simply craving something warm and familiar, this meatloaf will never let you down.