There's something wonderfully comforting about a slice of tender, juicy meatloaf, especially when it's paired with creamy mashed potatoes and a drizzle of savory gravy. This recipe isn't just a classic; it's a masterpiece that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.

I discovered this gem of a recipe while tweaking my grandmother's cherished version, adding a few modern twists to enhance the flavors. It's become a favorite in my household, and I can't wait for you to try it. Ready to make the best meatloaf you've ever tasted? Let’s dive in!
Why You'll Love This Meatloaf Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's as satisfying as it is simple. This meatloaf recipe delivers everything you want in a comfort meal—and more.
First, it’s incredibly moist and flavorful. The secret lies in the combination of fresh ingredients and a perfectly balanced seasoning blend. Each bite melts in your mouth, with just the right touch of herbs and spices.
Next, it’s easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, the straightforward steps make this recipe foolproof. In just about an hour, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering in the oven all day.
This recipe is also wonderfully budget-friendly. Made with accessible, affordable ingredients, it’s a fantastic option for feeding the family without stretching your wallet.
Finally, it's perfect for meal prep. Leftovers heat up beautifully, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week. You might even find yourself making extra on purpose!
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this meatloaf recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
- Ground beef: Use an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Too lean, and the meatloaf might turn out dry; too fatty, and it may fall apart.
- Breadcrumbs: These are the unsung heroes of a great meatloaf, absorbing the juices and keeping everything tender. Regular or seasoned breadcrumbs work perfectly here.
- Milk: Adding a splash of milk ensures the meatloaf stays moist. It’s the key to achieving that soft, irresistible texture.
- Eggs: These act as a binder, holding everything together. Two large eggs are just right for this recipe.
- Ketchup glaze: A blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce creates a tangy-sweet topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
- Onions and garlic: Freshly diced onions and minced garlic infuse the meatloaf with aromatic goodness, elevating it from good to unforgettable.
If you have a meat thermometer handy, it’s also a great tool for ensuring your meatloaf is perfectly cooked without guessing.
How To Make The Best Meatloaf

Making this meatloaf recipe is a breeze with these simple steps. Let me guide you through the process:
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan for easy cleanup.
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onions, garlic, and your seasoning blend. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape and glaze: Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared pan or baking sheet, shaping it into a loaf. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, then spread the glaze evenly over the top.
- Bake to perfection: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The glaze should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.
- Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and delicious.
From start to finish, you’ll have dinner ready in just over an hour—perfect for those busy evenings.
Storage Options
Leftover meatloaf is a treasure in its own right! Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:
- Refrigerate: Place slices in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat to perfection: Warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
This meatloaf recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some fun twists you can try:
- Switch up the protein: Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner options, though you may need to add extra moisture since they’re naturally less fatty.
- Add a cheesy center: Place a layer of shredded cheese in the middle of the loaf before baking for a gooey surprise in every slice.
- Sneak in veggies: Grated carrots, zucchini, or even spinach can be mixed into the meatloaf for added nutrition.
- Try a barbecue glaze: Replace the ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet finish.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a subtle kick.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to tailor this recipe to suit your family’s tastes.
This Best Meatloaf Recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a dish that delivers every time. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—I can't wait to hear your thoughts!
PrintThe Best Meatloaf Recipe
This best meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food that’s juicy, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Bread crumbs
- Milk
- Egg
- Ketchup
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, bread crumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Spread an additional layer of ketchup on top for a glaze.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for less grease, or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for a veggie boost.
- Leftovers make amazing meatloaf sandwiches!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙ of loaf)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
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