The ultimate juicy classic meatloaf recipe is a staple that many families cherish. This comforting dish is straightforward to make and results in a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy. Meatloaf is the perfect weeknight dinner that can satisfy a hungry crowd, and its leftovers are often even better the next day. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a blend of seasonings makes this recipe a go-to comfort food. You may also find Easy Banana Bread Recipe 5 Steps useful.
Why cook this at home
Preparing meatloaf at home is not only budget-friendly, but it’s also customizable to suit your taste. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers, making it a versatile dish. By cooking this at home, you can ensure that it is made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives. It’s a classic meal for a cozy family dinner, bringing everyone together around the table. You may also find Easy Meatloaf Recipe useful.
Steps at a glance
- Preheat the oven to the desired temperature.
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk to soften them.
- Combine the ground beef with other ingredients in a large bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan.
- Prepare the glaze and spread it over the meatloaf.
- Bake until it reaches the proper internal temperature.
Gather these items
1 ½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (80/20)
¾ cup (90 g) plain or panko breadcrumbs, soaked in ½ cup (120 ml) milk
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup (60 ml) ketchup, plus extra for glaze
1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for glaze)
2 tablespoons tomato paste or BBQ sauce (optional in glaze)
How to prepare it
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Soak the breadcrumbs in ½ cup (120 ml) milk for 5 minutes until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Smooth the top.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and optionally tomato paste or BBQ sauce. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake on the middle rack for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Cover with foil if the glaze browns too quickly.
What to serve it with
Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta are classic accompaniments. You can also serve steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a healthy contrast. For an added touch, a fresh garden salad can round out the meal.
How to store and freeze
Meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of meatloaf for up to 3 months. To reheat, ensure the slices are heated through to an internal temperature of 160°F. Remember to not leave the meatloaf out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Tricks for success
- Use breadcrumbs that have been soaked in milk for a moist texture.
- Don’t overmix the beef mixture to avoid a dense loaf.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to keep the juices intact.
- Experiment with adding different spices or herbs to match your family’s preferences.
- If you enjoy a slightly spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the mixture.
Creative twists
- Substitute half of the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add in grated vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, for extra nutrition.
- Top your meatloaf with cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a delicious melted layer.
- Try using a different type of mustard for a distinct flavor profile.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make meatloaf from start to finish?
The total time for this meatloaf recipe is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including preparation and baking time.
Can I substitute the beef for another meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats according to your preference.
How should I store meatloaf leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be sliced thin and used in sandwiches, added to a pasta dish, or crumbled into a salad.
Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can prepare it the night before and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
Trying out this classic meatloaf recipe is sure to be rewarding. Feel free to tweak the ingredients and make it uniquely yours. Do share your cooking adventures with your friends and family!
PrintClassic Juicy Meatloaf
A classic and comforting meatloaf recipe that brings families together for a hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (80/20)
- ¾ cup (90 g) plain or panko breadcrumbs, soaked in ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup (60 ml) ketchup, plus extra for glaze
- 1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste or BBQ sauce (optional in glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Soak the breadcrumbs in ½ cup (120 ml) milk for 5 minutes until soft.
- Combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Smooth the top.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and optionally tomato paste or BBQ sauce. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake on the middle rack for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Cover with foil if the glaze browns too quickly.
Notes
Use soaked breadcrumbs for a moist texture and avoid overmixing the beef mixture for best results. Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing for optimal juiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
