Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

January 23, 2026

Updated:

January 23, 2026

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This Classic Meatloaf Recipe is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to family dinners. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe combines savory flavors with simple ingredients, making it an easy and delicious choice for weeknight suppers or special gatherings. Its unique blend of spices and the delightful glaze make this meatloaf truly stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Flavorful: The combination of ground beef, spices, and a tangy ketchup glaze creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone loves.
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or slice it for sandwiches. It’s great for leftovers!
Family-Friendly: This classic meal appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients makes this recipe perfect for families looking to save.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this classic meatloaf recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Mixing bowl
Loaf pan (optional)
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even cooking and easy cleanup.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
Loaf pan: Helps shape the meatloaf neatly (though it’s not required).

Ingredients

This classic meatloaf recipe features simple yet delicious ingredients:

For the Meatloaf

1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (or beef/beef blend)
1 cup diced onion (chopped small)
¾ cup bread crumbs (or panko crumbs)
⅓ cup milk (broth or water)
2 eggs
1 tsp tomato paste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper

For the Glaze

¾ cup ketchup
1 Tbsp white vinegar

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch any drippings during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, add:
1. The lean ground beef
2. Finely chopped onion
3. Bread crumbs
4. Milk
5. Eggs
6. Garlic powder
7. Onion powder
8. Salt
9. Pepper
10. Tomato paste

Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

You can either shape the mixture into a loaf by hand or press it into a greased loaf pan. If using a loaf pan, flip it onto the baking sheet afterward for perfect loaf shape.

Step 4: Bake Without Sauce

Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven uncovered for 40 minutes. While it cooks, mix together ketchup and white vinegar in a small bowl.

Step 5: Apply Glaze and Finish Baking

After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the ketchup mixture over the top and sides of the loaf, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until fully cooked inside.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

Once cooked through, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute evenly throughout! Slice into pieces and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your homemade Classic Meatloaf Recipe, perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

How to Serve Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Serving a classic meatloaf brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. This dish pairs well with various sides and toppings, allowing for creative presentations and flavor combinations.

Traditional Sides

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the savory flavors of meatloaf.
Steamed Vegetables: Fresh steamed broccoli or green beans add color and balance to your plate.
Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.

Toppings and Sauces

Gravy: A rich gravy poured over slices enhances moisture and flavor, making every bite delightful.
Extra Ketchup: For those who love a tangy touch, serve extra ketchup on the side for dipping.
BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce can add depth and sweetness, perfect for those craving a different flavor profile.

Creative Twists

Cheese Topping: Melted cheese on top adds a gooey layer that kids will love.
Stuffed Meatloaf: Consider stuffing the meatloaf with spinach and cheese for an exciting twist on the classic dish.

How to Perfect Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Perfecting your classic meatloaf recipe takes practice but is easy with a few helpful tips.

Bold Flavoring: Always season generously. Adding enough salt and spices brings out the best flavors in your meatloaf.
Moisture Matters: Use milk or broth for moisture. This helps keep the loaf tender instead of dry after baking.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture; you want it light and fluffy.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking. This step helps retain juices, resulting in better flavor in each slice.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your classic meatloaf recipe can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that everyone loves.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the meatloaf.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and is great for summer meals.
Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs nicely with savory meatloaf, creating a comforting combo.
Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread makes for an indulgent side that’s perfect for mopping up sauces.
Cauliflower Mash: For a lighter alternative, cauliflower mash is creamy and satisfying without all the carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect classic meatloaf can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Using the wrong meat: Opting for fatty ground beef can result in a greasy meatloaf. Choose lean ground beef or a blend for a better texture.
Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can make the meatloaf dense. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for a lighter loaf.
Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the meatloaf right away can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Use spices and herbs generously to enhance taste.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can alter the consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover classic meatloaf in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Wrap individual slices with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Frozen meatloaf is best used within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Slice and heat in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this classic meatloaf recipe special?

This classic meatloaf recipe is special due to its tender texture and rich flavors from simple yet effective seasonings that please any palate.

Can I customize my classic meatloaf recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or even incorporate different spices to suit your taste preferences.

How do I know when my classic meatloaf is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F. A meat thermometer inserted into the center will ensure it’s safe to eat.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this classic meatloaf recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey for beef; just note that cooking times may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This classic meatloaf recipe stands out as a comforting dish that brings families together at the dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this timeless recipe a try and enjoy delicious homemade goodness!