Meatloaf Recipes

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and always satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty holiday meal, meatloaf offers rich flavor and a filling experience. Below, you’ll find a delicious, foolproof meatloaf recipe complete with all the details you need—from ingredients and instructions to tips and common questions.

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup ketchup (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions/Method

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, egg, milk, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Mix everything together by hand or with a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix.
Step 4: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Spread the remaining ½ cup of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 6: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings

Makes 6 servings

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbs: 14g
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 19g

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual slices or the entire loaf (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Microwave individual slices or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Pairings/Suggestions

• Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green beans.
• Pair with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or iced tea.
• For a twist, try a BBQ glaze instead of ketchup topping.

Seasonal Relevance

This meatloaf recipe is perfect year-round, but especially comforting during the fall and winter months when warm, hearty meals are most appreciated.

Conclusion:

This classic meatloaf recipe is a reliable go-to for a satisfying and flavorful meal. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a dinner that pleases everyone at the table. Whether paired with traditional sides or reinvented for leftovers, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes! Just make sure to include some fat (like olive oil or extra egg) to keep it moist, as poultry can be leaner than beef.

Q: Why does my meatloaf fall apart?
A: It may be due to not enough binder (egg and breadcrumbs). Be sure to measure accurately and avoid overmixing the ingredients.

Q: Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.