The Best Homemade Meatloaf Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade meatloaf recipe is a cozy classic that’s sure to become a family favorite, packed with flavor and easy to make. You’ll love how it brings everyone to the table with its comforting aroma and delicious taste. Simple ingredients make it a breeze to whip up, even on busy nights. The perfect balance of savory and sweet keeps every bite exciting. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for a hearty family meal. This recipe combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings to create a flavorful and moist meatloaf that is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a twist, you can add a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
- Leftover meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches the next day.
Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 6
Nutrition
This homemade meatloaf is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for a family dinner. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Total Carbs | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 22g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread, but I also enjoy mixing it up with lighter options. Fresh green beans or roasted carrots add a nice crunch and balance out the meal. Don’t forget a tangy salad or some pickles for a little extra zing!
Side Dishes
Pairing the right sides with your meal can take it from good to great, and it’s something I love experimenting with in the kitchen. For seasonal pairings, I lean towards roasted root vegetables in the fall or a fresh garden salad in the summer—they add a nice balance to the hearty meatloaf. When I’m in the mood for comfort classics, I can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of buttery corn. These dishes complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf and turn the meal into a cozy feast. It’s all about what feels right for the moment!
Vegetable Options
When looking for vegetable options to serve with meatloaf, it’s hard to beat something simple yet satisfying. I love pairing it with roasted carrots or garlic mashed cauliflower, which feel hearty without overwhelming the dish. If you’re exploring vegetable substitutes, try swapping potatoes for sweet potatoes or adding roasted Brussels sprouts for a bit of crunch. For those considering meat alternatives, a side of grilled zucchini or sautéed mushrooms can balance the meal perfectly. I often mix steamed green beans with a drizzle of olive oil for freshness. These choices keep the meal flavorful and wholesome, making every bite a delight.
