Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Hearty and Flavorful Meatloaf for Any Occasion
This classic meatloaf recipe is the perfect blend of savoury flavours and comforting textures, making it a favourite for family dinners or gatherings. Packed with ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and a tangy glaze, this dish is easy to prepare from scratch and guaranteed to impress. Whether hosting a special occasion or simply looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this meatloaf delivers warmth and nostalgia in every bite. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
Meatloaf is a comforting dish that brings everyone together, perfect for a cozy family dinner, potlucks, or even a holiday gathering. Its rich flavour and hearty texture make it ideal for any special occasion or simple weekday meal.
How to Make From Scratch Classic Meatloaf:
Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasoning. Mix thoroughly and shape the mixture into a loaf. Place the loaf in a baking dish, top with a tangy glaze made from ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar, and bake until cooked through. The key to a moist meatloaf is not overmixing the meat mixture.

When to Flip Classic Meatloaf:
There’s no need to flip the meatloaf. Bake it evenly in the oven, and it will cook perfectly without turning.
How to Reheat Classic Meatloaf:
Reheat leftover meatloaf slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
Can You Save Batter Classic Meatloaf?
This recipe doesn’t involve batter, but the meat mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can You Freeze Classic Meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! You can freeze the uncooked loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Alternatively, freeze cooked meatloaf slices and reheat them for easy meals.
Ingredients:
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Classic Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
Description
A comforting, old-fashioned meatloaf with a perfect balance of savory flavors and a caramelized ketchup glaze. Moist inside with just the right amount of crust!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
- 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheet with foil or use loaf pan.
- Mix: In large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix gently with hands until just combined (don’t overwork).
- Shape: Form into 9×5-inch loaf on baking sheet (or press into loaf pan).
- Glaze: Whisk glaze ingredients; spread 1/2 over loaf.
- Bake: 45 mins. Spread remaining glaze; bake 15-20 mins more until 160°F (71°C) internal temp.
- Rest: Let stand 10 mins before slicing.
Notes
- Moisture hack: Soak breadcrumbs in milk 5 mins before mixing.
- Freezer-friendly: Wrap unbaked loaf tightly; freeze up to 3 months (add 15-20 mins baking time).
- Variations: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or swap 1 lb beef for ground pork.
- For cleaner slices, use serrated knife and wipe between cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: undefined
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: undefined
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: undefined
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar to create the glaze. Spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Editor’s Note:
For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder, thyme, or parsley to the meat mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different taste.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 680mg

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Ranime is the founder of RecipesFood.org, where she shares wholesome and creative recipes for everyday cooking. She’s passionate about food, wellness, and inspiring others to cook with joy and confidence.
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