There’s something deeply comforting about a perfectly baked meatloaf coming out of the oven. As it cooks, your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of savory beef, caramelized onions, and a sweet-and-tangy glaze bubbling on top. When you slice into it, you get tender, juicy meat with just the right balance of flavor—never dry, never bland. This classic homemade meatloaf is the kind of dinner that makes you slow down, savor every bite, and feel right at home.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- You get a juicy, tender meatloaf that holds together beautifully
- The sweet and savory glaze adds incredible flavor and shine
- It’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or leftovers
- Customizable with different meats and seasonings
- A true comfort food classic that never goes out of style
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for a minute until soft—this is the secret to a moist, tender meatloaf. Add the eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until combined, then fold in the ground beef. Be careful not to overmix, or the meatloaf can turn dense.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Smooth the top lightly with a spoon so it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. The glaze should taste slightly sweet, tangy, and savory all at once.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Place it in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. Remove, spread the remaining glaze on top, and return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, until fully cooked and beautifully caramelized.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and keeps every slice juicy and flavorful.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, add ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms to the mixture
- Use a blend of ground beef and ground pork for richer flavor
- Swap breadcrumbs for panko or oats if preferred
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle kick
- Brush extra glaze during the last 10 minutes for a stickier, glossy top
What to Serve With It
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad. A slice of meatloaf with gravy and mashed potatoes is pure comfort on a plate.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F or microwave gently to keep it moist
Nutrition & Calories
Approximate values per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
Conclusion
This classic homemade meatloaf is everything you want in a comfort food dinner—rich, juicy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. From the savory aroma while it bakes to the tender slices topped with sticky glaze, every bite feels familiar and comforting. Once you make this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table, bringing warmth and deliciousness to every meal.
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