The Best Homemade Meatloaf Recipe Easy
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This classic homemade meatloaf is a comforting dish that’s easy to make and always hits the spot. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.
- Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples, it’s budget-friendly and requires no fancy equipment.
- Perfectly moist – A mix of ground beef and a few secret ingredients keeps it tender and juicy every time.
- Customizable flavors – Add your favorite spices, veggies, or glaze to make it your own.
Recipe
Enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade meatloaf with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this classic dish combines simple ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons prepared mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, green bell pepper, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference, such as adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6-8
Nutrition
This homemade meatloaf is packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
What To Serve With It
I always love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread. For something fresh, I whip up a crisp green salad or roast seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts. These choices make the meal feel complete and balanced.
Side Dishes
A perfectly paired side dish can turn a simple meatloaf dinner into a meal to remember, and I’ve found that balancing flavors and textures is key. For a classic combo, I love serving creamy potato salad alongside meatloaf—it’s comforting and pairs so well with the savory flavors. I also can’t resist adding a side of crisp green beans, either steamed or sautéed with a bit of garlic for extra zing. They bring a fresh, vibrant contrast to the dish. Together, these sides create a satisfying meal that feels both nostalgic and new, making every bite something special.
Vegetable Options
When it comes to pairing veggies with meatloaf, there’s a world of delicious possibilities waiting to brighten up your plate. I love serving carrot mash—it’s sweet, creamy, and balances the savory flavors perfectly. Roasted zucchini slices are another favorite; they’re tender with a slight crispness, and a sprinkle of garlic makes them irresistible. Sometimes, I’ll toss in green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra crunch. These sides not only add color but also make the meal feel lighter. Trust me, a bite of meatloaf with these veggies is pure comfort. You can’t go wrong!
