What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, yet how delicious it turns out every time.
- Juicy and tender—thanks to a mix of ground beef and breadcrumbs, it stays moist and never dry.
- Full of flavor—with onions, garlic, and a tangy glaze, every bite is bursting with taste.
- Perfect for leftovers—it reheats beautifully, making great sandwiches or quick meals the next day.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners. This homemade recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful loaf with a delicious glaze on top.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon 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 oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix the glaze ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard). Spread over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6
Nutrition
This homemade meatloaf recipe provides a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a typical serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 28g |
What To Serve With It
I like to pair my homemade meatloaf with classic sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted green beans, to make a comforting meal. If there are leftovers, I’ll slice the meatloaf thinly for sandwiches or crumble it into a pasta sauce. It’s a versatile dish that keeps on giving!
Side Dishes
When you’ve got a hearty slice of meatloaf on your plate, you’ll want sides that balance its richness without stealing the spotlight. I love creamy mashed potatoes—they’re classic and soak up the meatloaf’s juices perfectly. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness, while roasted carrots or green beans add sweetness and crunch. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up some buttery cornbread or garlicky roasted potatoes. Don’t forget a side of tangy pickles or coleslaw for a revitalizing bite. These pairings keep the meal comforting yet balanced, just like grandma used to make.
Leftover Ideas
Even though meatloaf tastes great fresh, the leftovers can be just as delicious if you know how to reinvent them. I love slicing it thin and making sandwiches with crusty bread, mayo, and lettuce—it’s a lunchtime winner. Another favorite is crumbling it into pasta sauce for a hearty, meaty twist on spaghetti. Breakfast gets a boost with meatloaf hash—diced potatoes, onions, and leftover meatloaf all sizzled together. Or, toss chunks into an omelet for a protein-packed start to the day. These ideas keep meals exciting, and I promise, you’ll never see leftovers the same way again!
