The Best Homemade Traditional Meatloaf Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade meatloaf recipe is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug.
- Juicy and tender every time, thanks to the perfect blend of ground meats and a secret ingredient—breadcrumbs soaked in milk.
- Family-friendly flavor with just the right balance of savory herbs and a sweet, tangy glaze that everyone will adore.
- Meal prep magic—leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. This homemade meatloaf recipe combines simple ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
- For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Confirm the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American
Serving: Serves 6-8
Nutrition
This classic homemade meatloaf is packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes and green beans—they’re comforting and always hit the spot. For something fresher, I’ll toss together a crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. You can mix and match these options to create the perfect meal that suits your taste!
Classic Side Dishes
Though meatloaf often takes center stage, it’s the sides that truly make the meal feel complete. I always reach for creamy mashed potatoes; they’re smooth, buttery, and pair perfectly with meatloaf. Roasted carrots or green beans add a touch of sweetness and crunch, balancing the savory flavors. Sometimes, I’ll whip up garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for a little carb comfort. Corn on the cob, dripping with melted butter, is another favorite. These classic sides bring warmth and familiarity to the table, turning a simple meatloaf dinner into something hearty and memorable every time.
Fresh Salad Options
When you’re serving up a hearty meatloaf, a fresh salad can lighten the meal while adding crisp, vibrant flavors. I love pairing mine with a simple garden salad—lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss in some crumbled feta or toasted nuts for extra crunch. A Caesar salad with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons is another winner, balancing the meatloaf’s richness. For something different, try a kale salad with lemon dressing—it’s sturdy enough to stand up to the meal. Whatever you choose, a fresh salad keeps things balanced and delicious.
