Irresistible Classic Meatloaf Recipe You’ll Love (Easy!)

The aroma of a freshly baked Classic Meatloaf fills the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. The savory scent of ground beef mingles with the sweetness of onions and the rich depth of spices, creating a tantalizing invitation to dig in.

Picture this: you pull that glorious loaf from the oven, its golden-brown crust glistening with a sticky glaze that promises flavor in every bite. This dish is not just food; it’s nostalgia served on a plate. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, Classic Meatloaf stands tall as a beloved staple that brings everyone together and sparks joy.

I remember serving this Classic Meatloaf at my last family reunion. My uncle whispered “This is better than my mom’s!” while secretly eying the last slice.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.

• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to bind everything together seamlessly.

• Onion: Finely chop a medium onion; its sweetness will elevate the meatloaf’s flavor.

• Ketchup: Use your favorite brand for glazing; it adds both moisture and sweetness.

• Eggs: Two large eggs will hold the mixture together and add richness.

• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash enhances umami flavors and adds depth—don’t skip this!

• Garlic Powder: This adds an aromatic kick without overwhelming the other flavors.

• Salt & Pepper: Season liberally for maximum taste—these staples are essential!

• Parsley (optional): Chopped fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color if desired.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty loaf pan because we’re about to dive into meatloaf magic!

Mixing Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, ketchup, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined—don’t overwork it!

Shaping the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into your loaf pan. Shape it gently into a loaf form; think of it as giving your meatloaf a spa day! Smooth out any unevenness with love.

Topping It Off: Brush additional ketchup over the top of your shaped meatloaf. This sweet glaze creates an irresistible crust as it bakes.

Baking Time!: Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Keep an eye on it; you want that beautiful golden-brown color without burning!

Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Letting It Rest: Once done, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain all those juicy flavors instead of releasing them onto your plate!

Enjoy every satisfying bite of this Classic Meatloaf recipe that warms hearts and stomachs alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Mix your ingredients thoroughly, shape the loaf, and place it in a baking dish. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for perfectly cooked meatloaf.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats. Add spices like smoked paprika or herbs like thyme for extra flavor. You can even sneak in chopped veggies for added nutrition and crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover classic meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, slice and pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it remains moist.

Classic meatloaf brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with warmth and laughter as we gathered around her table on Sundays.

FAQ

What cut of meat is best for classic meatloaf?

A blend of lean ground beef with ground pork gives great flavor and texture.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Check with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F internally to be safe.

Can I freeze leftover classic meatloaf?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months; thaw before reheating.

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Classic Meatloaf

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• Author: Rachel Simmons
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming aroma of Classic Meatloaf, a timeless dish that brings families together. This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy ground beef with savory spices and a sweet ketchup glaze, creating a flavorful loaf that is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers in sandwiches, Classic Meatloaf evokes nostalgia and warmth with every satisfying bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, ketchup, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
4. Brush additional ketchup on top for a sweet glaze.
5. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats for variation. Enhance flavor by adding smoked paprika or fresh herbs. For added nutrition, mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.