Name: Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef and pork blend; 3/4 cup bread crumbs; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh or dried parsley (or thyme/oregano); 1/2 cup ketchup (or preferred alternative like barbecue sauce or sriracha)

Jump to Recipe

Prepare to fall in love with the comforting flavors of a classic Meatloaf Recipe—this is a foolproof version that fills your kitchen with nostalgic aroma and guarantees juicy, satisfying slices every time. Tender, perfectly seasoned, and topped with a luscious glaze, this is the kind of recipe that draws everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for leftovers, this Meatloaf Recipe is about to become a treasured staple in your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Meatloaf Recipe lies in its straightforward pantry ingredients, each one earning its place in the mix. These simple additions work together to create a moist, flavorful loaf that slices beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

1 pound ground beef and pork blend: This combination brings unbeatable moisture and flavor—don’t skip the blend for extra juiciness!
3/4 cup bread crumbs: They help bind the meat together, soaking up juices for that tender texture we crave.
2 large eggs, beaten: Eggs are the magic glue, holding your loaf together so each slice can stand on its own.
1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds subtle sweetness and a soft bite for extra depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: For a warm, aromatic kick that makes every bite memorable.
1/4 cup milk: Keeps everything luscious and tender, preventing a dry loaf.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A must for savory depth—don’t be shy about this ingredient.
1 teaspoon salt: Simple seasoning that lets all the flavors shine.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle warmth and complements the other spices.
1 tablespoon fresh or dried parsley (or thyme/oregano): Herbaceous freshness elevates the whole dish—mix and match as you like.
1/2 cup ketchup (or alternative like barbecue sauce or sriracha): This is your glossy, caramelized topping—choose your favorite twist!

How to Make Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by turning your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Give your loaf pan a spritz of oil, or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. That little bit of prep ensures a quick and easy release after baking and less scrubbing later—always a win!

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Grab your largest mixing bowl and gently combine the ground beef-pork blend, bread crumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. Use clean hands or a big spoon—just be careful not to overmix, which can make the loaf tough. Aim for everything to be just combined and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Scoop your mixture into the prepared pan or onto the parchment-lined sheet. Gently pat it into a loaf shape, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. This helps everything cook at the same rate so no dry edges or undercooked centers.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

Spread the ketchup (or your sauce of choice) in a thick, even layer over the whole top of your loaf. This step ensures a deeply flavorful, caramelized crust that soaks right into each slice—no dry meatloaf here!

Step 5: Bake Until Done

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Check the center with a meat thermometer—you’re aiming for 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius). That way, you’ll have a loaf that’s juicy but cooked safely through.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for a good 10 minutes before slicing. It helps the juices redistribute and the slices hold together beautifully. Trust me—those ten minutes are well worth it for a perfect presentation!

How to Serve Meatloaf Recipe

Garnishes

Dress up your Meatloaf Recipe with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives. A little greenery on top looks gorgeous and lends a fresh pop, especially against that rich glaze. For a fun twist, a swirl of extra sauce or a dusting of black pepper can jazz it up too.

Side Dishes

Meatloaf Recipe loves classic sides—think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a pile of steamed green beans. For added comfort, serve with buttered corn or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. The real secret is picking sides that soak up every bit of that flavorful meatloaf sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and stack your meatloaf on a rustic wooden board for a casual, family-style vibe, or cut into mini-loaves for personal servings at dinner parties. Leftovers can be tucked into sandwiches or served atop garlic toast for a fun brunch take. However you serve it, your guests will rave about this Meatloaf Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatloaf is a dream—let it cool to room temperature, then wrap snugly in foil or place in an airtight container. It’ll happily last three to four days in the fridge, ready to become tomorrow’s comfort lunch or quick dinner.

Freezing

This Meatloaf Recipe freezes like a champ! You can freeze cooked slices or the entire loaf. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Just remember to label—your future self will thank you when you’re raiding the freezer.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, reheat slices in a covered baking dish at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, adding a splash of broth if you like. Microwaving works in a pinch, but oven reheating is best for flavor and texture. Either way, you’ll enjoy a meal that tastes just like new.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork blend?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in this Meatloaf Recipe, but be sure to add a little extra milk or sautéed veggies for moisture, since turkey is naturally leaner.

What’s the best way to prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?

The bread crumbs and eggs are essential binders for this Meatloaf Recipe. Be sure to mix just until combined and let the loaf rest after baking, which helps it slice beautifully and stay intact.

Can I make the Meatloaf Recipe ahead of time?

You sure can! Prep the loaf and glaze it, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for planning ahead on busy days.

What can I use instead of ketchup for the glaze?

Try barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet finish, sriracha for a spicy kick, or even a blend of tomato paste and brown sugar. The Meatloaf Recipe is wonderfully flexible!

How do I know when my meatloaf is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the center and check for clear juices and no pink.

Final Thoughts

This Meatloaf Recipe is pure comfort on a plate—the kind of dinner that makes memories. Give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and don’t forget to savor every bite. I’m cheering you on and can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

Meatloaf Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 1 meatloaf, serves 4-6 1x
Diet: Non-vegetarian

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Description

This classic meatloaf recipe combines ground beef and pork with savory seasonings, creating a moist and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a hearty family dinner.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease your loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, finely chopped onion and garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently but thoroughly, without overworking the mixture.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Add the Glaze: Spread an even layer of ketchup or preferred sauce over the top of the loaf.
Bake Until Done: Bake the meatloaf for 55 to 65 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius).
Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

You can customize the glaze by using your favorite barbecue sauce or adding a touch of heat with sriracha.
For added flavor, consider mixing different herbs like thyme or oregano into the meat mixture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American