Classic Meatloaf is a traditional, comforting dish made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a flavorful blend of seasonings, all topped with a tangy ketchup glaze. This recipe takes the humble meatloaf to the next level by ensuring it’s moist, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. It’s a family favorite that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
The Best Classic Meatloaf
I love making this meatloaf because it’s simple, hearty, and brings back memories of family dinners. The combination of juicy ground beef, a savory blend of spices, and the sweet, tangy glaze on top creates the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal—perfect for busy weeknights or serving a crowd. Whether you’re a meatloaf lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to win you over.
Pair this meatloaf with classic sides like Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes Recipe or a light salad like Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese Recipe for a balanced meal.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Meatloaf Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: The perfect combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings ensures this meatloaf is juicy and packed with flavor.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
- Customizable: You can add vegetables or switch up the spices to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser that everyone, from kids to adults, will love.
Main Ingredients for The Best Classic Meatloaf
- Ground Beef – 80/20 ground beef works best for a juicy, flavorful meatloaf.
- Breadcrumbs – Regular or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf and keep it tender.
- Milk – Adds moisture and richness to the meat mixture.
- Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together.
- Onion and Garlic – These aromatics add depth and flavor to the meatloaf.
- Ketchup – Used in both the meat mixture and the glaze, adding sweetness and tang.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the savory, umami flavor of the meatloaf.
- Spices – Salt, pepper, dried thyme, and parsley bring out the best flavors in the meatloaf.
Step-by-Step Instructions for The Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe
Here’s how to make this juicy, flavorful meatloaf step by step:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Tip: Using a baking sheet rather than a loaf pan allows the fat to drain off the meatloaf, preventing it from becoming greasy.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 finely diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 beaten eggs, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme. Mix gently until all the ingredients are just combined.
- Pro Tip: Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan and shape it into a loaf, roughly 9×5 inches.
- Variation: You can also divide the mixture into smaller individual loaves for quicker cooking.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Tip: You can add a touch of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the glaze for extra depth of flavor.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature without overcooking.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: You can add grated carrots, chopped bell peppers, or spinach to the meat mixture for extra nutrition.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- How to Store: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- How to Freeze: You can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, shape the loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add an additional 30-40 minutes to the cooking time.
Health Benefits of The Best Classic Meatloaf
This meatloaf offers a well-balanced meal with protein from the beef and eggs, and carbohydrates from the breadcrumbs. You can make it even healthier by using lean ground beef or turkey and adding vegetables to the mixture. Pairing it with nutrient-rich sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad will help create a balanced, nutritious meal.
- High in Protein: Ground beef and eggs provide protein, which is essential for muscle repair and energy.
- Rich in Iron: Beef is a great source of iron, supporting healthy blood flow and oxygen transport.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can make this dish lighter by using lean meat and adding vegetables for extra fiber and vitamins.
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