🥩 Classic Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy, Flavorful & Easy to Make

Looking for the perfect meatloaf recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and comforting? This homemade meatloaf is a classic American dish that brings families together. 🍽️

Whether you’re cooking a hearty weeknight dinner or serving guests, this recipe will deliver tender, flavorful meatloaf every time. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making it a go-to meal for busy families.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and serving ideas to make the best meatloaf ever. Plus, it’s optimized for search engines so you can find exactly what you’re looking for!

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe

This classic meatloaf has been a family favorite for generations. Here’s why you’ll love it:

✅ Juicy and Tender – No dry meatloaf here, just perfect texture.
✅ Simple Ingredients – Pantry-friendly items you likely already have.
✅ Customizable – Add your favorite spices or veggies.
✅ Kid-Friendly – A dinner even picky eaters will enjoy.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

Whether served with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, this meatloaf is the definition of comfort food. 🥔🥕

🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start, gather these fresh ingredients to make a juicy, flavorful meatloaf:

🥩 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
🍞 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
🥚 2 large eggs
🥛 ½ cup milk
🧅 1 small onion, finely chopped
🌱 2 cloves garlic, minced
🍅 ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
🥫 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
🧂 1 tsp salt
🌿 ½ tsp black pepper
🌶️ ½ tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
🧈 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing onion and garlic)

💡 Pro Tip: Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra moisture and flavor.

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfectly juicy meatloaf every time:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Sauté Onion & Garlic 🧅

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
Let them cool slightly before adding to the mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients 🥩

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Cooked onion and garlic
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Milk
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, pepper, and paprika
- Half of the ketchup
Use clean hands or a spoon to mix gently.

⚠️ Important: Don’t overmix—this will keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf 🍞

Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan.
Gently shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s even on top.

Step 5: Add the Ketchup Glaze 🍅

Spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the top.
This creates a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf 🕒

Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.
Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Step 7: Rest and Serve 🍽️

Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.

🌟 Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf

Here are expert tips to elevate your meatloaf game:

🥩 Use a meat mix – Combine ground beef, pork, and veal for richer flavor.
🥕 Add vegetables – Carrots, celery, and bell peppers add moisture and nutrients.
🍞 Use fresh breadcrumbs – They soak up more flavor than store-bought crumbs.
🧄 Season generously – Don’t be afraid to add extra herbs and spices.
🕒 Avoid overbaking – Use a thermometer to prevent dryness.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Meatloaf pairs well with many classic sides. Here are some serving ideas:

🥔 Mashed Potatoes – A classic combo everyone loves.
🥦 Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
🥗 Fresh Salad – Adds balance and freshness to the meal.
🍞 Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up extra juices.
🍷 Red Wine – For an elevated dining experience.

🥡 How to Store and Freeze Meatloaf

This meatloaf stores well for meal prep and leftovers:

Refrigerator:
- Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven at 300°F until warm.
Freezer:
- Wrap whole loaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common errors to ensure the perfect meatloaf:

Overmixing the meat – Leads to a tough, dense texture.
Skipping the rest period – The juices will run out if you slice too soon.
Not checking internal temperature – Always aim for 160°F (71°C).
Too much breadcrumb – Can make the loaf dry and crumbly.
Forgetting the glaze – Adds essential flavor and visual appeal.

🧾 Nutritional Information (per slice)

Based on 8 servings:

Calories: 320
Protein: 23g
Carbs: 11g
Fat: 21g
Sodium: 460mg
Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

📝 Final Thoughts

This classic meatloaf recipe is a timeless, comforting dish that’s both simple and satisfying. With its juicy texture, rich flavors, and sweet ketchup glaze, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

By following these step-by-step instructions and pro tips, you’ll create a meatloaf that’s far from ordinary. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a leftover sandwich the next day, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table. 🥩❤️

So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade meatloaf ever!

🔍 SEO Keywords to Target

Use these keywords naturally throughout your blog for better Google rankings:

Classic meatloaf recipe
Best homemade meatloaf
Juicy meatloaf recipe
Easy meatloaf with breadcrumbs
Old-fashioned meatloaf
Simple meatloaf for family dinners
Meatloaf with ketchup glaze

Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe 🍽️ | Easy & Juicy