Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe

This Classic Meatloaf Recipe is the ultimate comfort food—moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Using simple ingredients like breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup, this homemade meatloaf is easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty family meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick meatloaf recipe or the best meatloaf, this version is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Moist and Tender – The combination of milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs ensures a juicy meatloaf every time.
• Rich and Savory Flavor – Seasonings like Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder add depth to the dish.
• Easy and Family-Friendly – This classic meatloaf is simple to make and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers), diced onion, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

3. Shape the Loaf

• Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan.
• Shape it into a loaf, making sure it is evenly packed but not overly compressed.

4. Make the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.

5. Bake the Meatloaf

• Bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return to bake for another 15 minutes (total bake time: 1 hour).

6. Rest and Serve

• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Meatloaf – Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for extra richness.
• BBQ Meatloaf – Swap the ketchup in the glaze for BBQ sauce to give the dish a smoky flavor.
• Gluten-Free Meatloaf – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Spicy Version – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Turkey Meatloaf – Substitute ground turkey for a leaner version of this good meatloaf recipe.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Wrap the cooked meatloaf in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How do I keep meatloaf from falling apart?

Mixing in eggs and breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) helps bind the meatloaf together. Also, let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it intact.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter homemade meatloaf, though it may be slightly less juicy than beef.

What are the best breadcrumbs for meatloaf?

Plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs work well, but crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs are great alternatives.

How do I make meatloaf extra moist?

Using 80/20 ground beef, milk, and eggs helps retain moisture. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatloaf dense.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the meatloaf mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, or a green salad all pair wonderfully with classic meatloaf.

Can I cook meatloaf without a loaf pan?

Yes! Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

How do I know when meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should read 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply bake in two loaf pans or shape a larger loaf on a baking sheet and adjust the cooking time.

What’s the best way to slice meatloaf?

Use a serrated knife and slice gently to keep the meatloaf from crumbling.

Conclusion

This Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick meatloaf recipe, a classic meatloaf, or the best meatloaf, this dish delivers every time. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that never goes out of style!