Introduction

Meatloaf Recipe lovers, this one’s for you! This juicy, tender, perfectly seasoned loaf is the kind of hearty comfort food that brings everyone to the table. After a decade of food blogging and recipe testing, I can confidently say this is the only meatloaf recipe you’ll ever need — juicy on the inside, caramelized on top, and bursting with savory flavor.

The secret? A perfect balance of breadcrumbs, milk, onions, and seasoning — plus a tangy ketchup glaze that caramelizes in the oven. The result is moist, melt-in-your-mouth slices that taste even better the next day.

This dish isn’t just a weeknight dinner; it’s a nostalgic, all-American classic that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy meatloaf recipe is guaranteed to satisfy every craving.

Let’s make this ultimate comfort meal step-by-step!

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe

✅ Juicy, flavorful, and never dry.
✅ Ready in about 1 hour from start to finish.
✅ Great for meal prep — reheats beautifully.
✅ Family-friendly and budget-friendly.
✅ Freezer-safe for easy weeknight dinners.

Meatloaf Recipe with tangy glaze and parsley garnish

🧂 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
¾ cup breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried parsley (optional)

For the Glaze

½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Optional Substitutions

Replace beef with half ground pork for richer flavor.
Use almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Substitute dairy-free milk for lactose-free diets.

👉 Internal link: Need help with prep? See our Guide on How to Mince Garlic.

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Phase 1: Prep the Ingredients

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a loaf pan (9×5-inch) with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.
Finely chop onion and mince garlic.

Phase 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let it soak for 2 minutes.
Add ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Mix gently with your hands or a spoon — just until combined.
Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan, pressing lightly to shape.

Phase 3: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar.
Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.

Phase 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
Brush remaining glaze over the top.
Continue baking for 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (per USDA guidelines).
Rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Phase 5: Serve

Slice, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm with mashed potatoes or green beans.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

Pro Tips

Do not overmix — overworking the meat makes it tough.
Use 80/20 beef for juicy texture.
Let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
Add vegetables like grated carrots or bell peppers for moisture and flavor.

Variations

Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour.
Spicy: Add hot sauce or chili flakes to the glaze.
Cheesy: Mix shredded cheddar into the meat.
BBQ Twist: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky flavor.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair your Meatloaf Recipe with:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes 🥔
Garlic Green Beans 🌿
Classic Mac and Cheese 🧀
Homemade Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Crispy Roasted Green Beans
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

🥡 Storage & Meal Prep

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Freezer: Slice and wrap portions individually; freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave 1–2 minutes.
Meal Prep Tip: Make the mixture ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day.

🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 520mg
Cholesterol: 110mg

Values are estimates and vary by ingredients.

❓ FAQ

Q1: Can I make this Meatloaf Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and shape the loaf, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
Use enough binders — eggs and breadcrumbs — and let it rest before slicing.

Q3: Can I make this Meatloaf Recipe without breadcrumbs?
Yes. Substitute crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour.

Q4: How long should I bake meatloaf?
Bake for 60 minutes total or until internal temp hits 160°F.

Q5: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Use ground turkey or chicken but reduce milk slightly to avoid excess moisture.

Q6: How do I make the top of my Meatloaf Recipe crispy?
Bake uncovered and brush the glaze twice during cooking for a caramelized crust.

📋 Recipe Card (Printable)

Delicious 60-Minute Meatloaf Recipe

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Author: Merry Ava
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Servings: 6

Print Recipe

Description

Make this juicy Meatloaf Recipe in 60 minutes! Moist, flavorful, and family-approved — the ultimate comfort dinner. Try it tonight!

Ingredients

1½ lbs ground beef
¾ cup breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 onion, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 eggs
2 tbsp ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt & pepper
Glaze: ½ cup ketchup + 2 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tbsp vinegar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Combine all meatloaf ingredients, form into loaf.
Mix glaze and spread half on top.
Bake 45 minutes, glaze again, bake 15 minutes.
Rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Don’t overmix — keeps meatloaf tender.

Add veggies for more moisture and nutrition.

Use meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes

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🥰 Closing Section

There you have it — the ultimate Meatloaf Recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect every time. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner or prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints.

⭐ If you tried this recipe, leave a rating below!
💬 Share your tips or substitutions in the comments.
📌 Save this recipe on Pinterest for your next comfort-food craving!

Because great dinners don’t need to be complicated — they just need to be delicious. 🍽️❤️