The Best Homemade Easy Meatloaf Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering comfort food with minimal effort. You’ll love how simple it is to make, yet packed with flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
- Quick prep time – Just mix, shape, and bake for a fuss-free dinner.
- Family-friendly flavor – A classic blend of savory seasonings that kids and adults adore.
- Leftovers shine – Tastes even better the next day, making lunches a breeze.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfying. This simple recipe delivers a moist and flavorful meatloaf with a delicious glaze on top.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup dried bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
- ⅓ cup ketchup
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, milk, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a lightly greased loaf pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing for easier serving.
Equipment:
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6
Nutrition
This easy meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food favorite. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 100mg |
| Sodium | 700mg |
| Total Carbs | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 25g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, which balance its hearty flavor perfectly. A crisp green salad or buttery cornbread also adds a nice touch to the meal. For drinks, I enjoy a glass of red wine or iced tea to complement the dish.
Side Dishes
Since meatloaf is such a comforting classic, it pairs well with simple, hearty sides that round out the meal. I love serving it with fresh salad options like a crisp garden salad or tangy coleslaw for an invigorating contrast. For vegetable choices, roasted carrots, garlic green beans, or creamy mashed potatoes are my go-tos—they add color and flavor without stealing the spotlight. Sometimes, I’ll even toss together a quick sautéed spinach or steam some broccoli. These sides balance the richness of the meatloaf, making the meal feel complete. It’s all about keeping it easy, tasty, and satisfying!
Beverage Pairings
When I’m serving up a slice of meatloaf, I always think about what’s in my glass—it’s just as important as what’s on my plate! For wine suggestions, I lean toward a medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Merlot—they complement the savory flavors without overpowering them. If I’m in the mood for something lighter, a crisp Chardonnay works wonders. As for beer recommendations, I love pairing meatloaf with a malty amber ale or a smooth brown ale; their caramel notes balance the dish perfectly. And hey, if you’re not into alcohol, a tart cherry juice makes a surprisingly great match, too!
