The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Looking for the perfect meatloaf recipe? This classic meatloaf recipe brings together simple ingredients for a deliciously comforting family meal. Whether you're craving that nostalgic homemade taste or trying your hand at making meatloaf for the first time, this recipe delivers consistently amazing results. With its perfect blend of seasonings and a tangy glaze, this easy-to-follow recipe will become your go-to dinner option for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This isn't just any meatloaf – it's a tried-and-true recipe that combines generations of home cooking wisdom with modern techniques. The result? A perfectly moist, flavorful meatloaf that slices beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients for the Perfect Meatloaf Recipe

Main Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- Substitute: ground turkey for a leaner option
1 cup breadcrumbs
- Substitute: crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon each: garlic powder, salt
½ teaspoon each: black pepper, dried thyme

Glaze Ingredients

½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Meatloaf Recipe :Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Your Ingredients

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper
- Pro tip: Leave extra paper hanging over sides for easy removal
Finely chop onions and any additional vegetables
- Time-saving tip: Use a food processor for quick, even chopping

Mixing and Forming the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, and eggs
Add onion, milk, ketchup, and all seasonings
Mix gently with hands until just combined
- Important: Don't overmix or your meatloaf will be tough
Transfer mixture to prepared loaf pan
Shape into a loaf, pressing gently
- Shape tip: Create a slight dome for even cooking

Baking Your Meatloaf

Mix glaze ingredients in a small bowl
Spread half the glaze over meatloaf
Bake for 45 minutes
Add remaining glaze
Bake additional 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F
- Doneness tip: Always use a meat thermometer for perfect results

Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions

Health Benefits

High-protein meal (25g per serving)
Good source of B vitamins and iron
Can be made leaner with turkey
Includes vegetables for added nutrients

Serving Ideas

Classic: Mashed potatoes and green beans
Modern: Roasted vegetables and quinoa
Comfort: Mac and cheese with peas
Leftovers: Meatloaf sandwiches

Recipe Variations

Turkey Meatloaf Version

Use lean ground turkey
Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan
Increase seasonings by 25%
Add ¼ cup finely diced bell peppers

Cracker Barrel Style Version

Use crushed Ritz crackers
Add diced celery and carrots
Double the glaze recipe

FAQ

What is the secret to a great meat loaf?

The secret to a great meatloaf lies in three key elements: moisture, binding, and seasoning. Use a mixture of milk-soaked breadcrumbs (panade), eggs for binding, and a combination of beef, pork, and veal for optimal flavor and texture. Don't overmix the meat, as this makes the loaf tough. Finally, let it rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to retain juices.

How do I keep my meatloaf moist?

Use meat with some fat content (80/20), don't overmix, and add liquid ingredients like milk or broth. The glaze also helps keep moisture in.

What is the basic meatloaf formula?

The basic meatloaf formula is 2 pounds ground meat, 2 eggs, 1 cup breadcrumbs, ½ cup milk, ½ cup ketchup or tomato sauce, 1 diced onion, and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic). This 2-1-½ ratio (meat-eggs-breadcrumbs) creates the perfect texture and ensures the meatloaf holds together while staying moist.

How long does a 2lb meatloaf take at 350 degrees?

A 2-pound meatloaf typically takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The internal temperature should reach 160°F when tested with a meat thermometer. Shape the loaf about 2 inches thick for even cooking. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

What not to put in meatloaf?

Avoid these common meatloaf mistakes: using only lean meat (too dry), adding raw onions (releases water), using dry breadcrumbs without liquid (lacks moisture), oversalting (since many ingredients contain salt), and overmixing the meat mixture (creates tough texture). Also skip pre-packaged seasonings which often contain excess sodium.

HOW DID YOUR MEATLOAF RECIPE TURN OUT?

How did your Meatloaf Recipe turn out? Ready to savor something new? This recipe is sure to impress with its perfectly tender texture, savory flavors, and that irresistible sweet-tangy glaze that creates a delicious caramelized crust. If you're a fan of comforting home-style cooking and classic family recipes, be sure to try our Marry Me Chicken Pasta next – another easy-to-make yet delicious treat!

Did you make this Meatloaf Recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Did you try any creative twists, like adding diced bell peppers or using a mix of meats? Maybe you created your own special glaze or added some herbs from your garden? Your feedback not only helps others but also contributes to our growing community of home cooks.

Don't forget to share a photo of your culinary creation! We love seeing those beautiful slices and that perfect glaze. Everyone's meatloaf has its own special touch, and we can't wait to see yours!

Why You'll Love This Recipe