What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This classic meatloaf recipe is a must-try for its comforting flavors and simplicity. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
You’ll love how easy it’s to prepare, with just a handful of pantry staples. The dish bakes up tender and juicy, thanks to the perfect balance of ingredients.
Plus, leftovers make for delicious sandwiches the next day!
Recipe

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that combines ground meat with a blend of seasonings and binders to create a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners.
This timeless recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here’s how to make a delicious meatloaf that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
- For a tangier glaze, mix ketchup with a tablespoon of brown sugar and a teaspoon of mustard before spreading it on top.
- Add grated carrots or celery to the mixture for extra vegetables.
- Leftover meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches the next day.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Serving: 6-8
Nutrition
Meatloaf is a hearty dish packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 250 |
Protein | 20g |
Fat | 15g |
Carbohydrates | 10g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 500mg |
What To Serve With It
A classic comfort dish like this deserves sides that complement its rich, savory flavors without stealing the spotlight.
I love pairing meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery roasted vegetables—they’re simple yet satisfying. A tangy green salad or steamed green beans adds a fresh crunch that balances the meal.
Sometimes, I’ll whip up honey-glazed carrots or garlic butter corn for a touch of sweetness.
And who can forget warm, crusty bread to soak up the juices?
These sides enhance the meatloaf without overpowering it, creating a cozy, well-rounded dinner that feels like a hug on a plate.