What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This classic homemade meatloaf is comfort food at its best, with a juicy, flavorful center and a sweet, sticky glaze that everyone will love.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Perfectly moist inside, thanks to a mix of ground beef and breadcrumbs that keeps it tender.
- Family-friendly—kids and adults alike will ask for seconds, especially with that irresistible glaze on top.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. This homemade version is simple to make and yields a moist, tender meatloaf with a deliciously savory glaze. Follow this easy recipe for a meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
For the meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ 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). Lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake 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 extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the meat mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat thermometer
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
6 servings
Nutrition
This meatloaf recipe is a hearty and nutritious dish that can be a part of a balanced diet. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 315 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes, like creamy mashed potatoes or steamed green beans, to make a comforting meal. A crisp salad or roasted vegetables can add a fresh balance to the rich flavors, too. For drinks, I often go with iced tea or a glass of red wine, depending on the mood.
Side Dishes
A great meatloaf deserves sides that complement its hearty, comforting flavors. I love pairing mine with creamy mashed potatoes—they’re like a cozy blanket for the dish. Roasted carrots or green beans add a crisp, fresh contrast, while buttery cornbread brings a touch of sweetness. For something tangy, coleslaw or pickles cut through the richness. If I’m feeling fancy, garlicky roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple garden salad work wonders. Don’t forget a drizzle of gravy over everything! These sides balance the meal, making each bite even more satisfying. Trust me, they’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Beverage Pairings
Now that we’ve got the sides covered, let’s talk about what to sip alongside that delicious meatloaf. I love pairing it with a classic red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, for a cozy dinner. If wine’s not your thing, a cold beer, like a lager or amber ale, works wonders with its savory flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, try iced tea—it’s invigorating and lightens up the meal. Personally, I sometimes go for sparkling water with a lemon twist for a crisp finish. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the hearty, comforting vibe of the meatloaf. Cheers!
