Easy Meatloaf

Let’s talk about comfort food that’s simple, hearty, and totally satisfying—meatloaf! This Easy Meatloaf recipe takes all the stress out of cooking this classic dish. It’s got that tender, juicy texture and savory flavor we all crave, but without any complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. You’ll be able to make it in no time, and it’ll taste like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. The best part? It’s a total crowd-pleaser, so you can feed the whole family or impress your guests with minimal effort. It’s basically the ultimate weeknight dinner.

You know when you think of meatloaf, you think of that classic, comforting home-cooked meal? This one totally delivers on that promise. With a bit of seasoning, a sweet and tangy glaze on top, and all the good things packed inside, this meatloaf is one of those dishes that brings back memories and fills your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. Trust me, you’re going to love it.

Why You’ll Love Easy Meatloaf

Quick and Simple

No fancy steps or ingredients here—just basic, everyday items you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Plus, it’s a one-bowl wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Comfort Food at Its Finest

There’s just something about meatloaf that hits the spot every time. Tender meat mixed with savory seasonings, all glazed to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food.

Make Ahead & Leftovers

This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer, making weeknight dinners even easier. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they make a fantastic lunch the next day!

Customizable

Feel free to add your favorite veggies (like onions, bell peppers, or carrots) to the mix for extra flavor, or switch up the glaze to suit your taste—whether it’s ketchup, barbecue sauce, or something spicy!

Ingredients

This Easy Meatloaf recipe uses simple ingredients, but when combined, they create a moist, flavorful loaf that’s bound to be a family favorite.

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground Beef: The classic meatloaf base. Go for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together and keep the meatloaf tender. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs.
• Egg: The egg helps hold everything together and gives the meatloaf a nice, rich texture.
• Milk: Adds moisture to the meat mixture, making it even more tender.
• Onion: Chopped onions bring a bit of sweetness and depth to the meatloaf. You can sauté them first if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic gives that essential savory kick to the meatloaf.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This adds that deep, umami flavor that makes the meatloaf extra tasty.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

For the Glaze:

• Ketchup: The classic topping for meatloaf, adding sweetness and tang.
• Brown Sugar: For a touch of sweetness that balances the tangy ketchup.
• Mustard: Adds a little sharpness to cut through the sweetness.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Making meatloaf has never been easier! Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, delicious meatloaf:

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the meatloaf bakes evenly and perfectly.

Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your meatloaf might end up tough.

Shape the Meatloaf

1. Form the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf shape, about 9×5 inches, making sure it’s compact and even on all sides.

Prepare the Glaze

1. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir until everything is well combined. This will create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes on top of the meatloaf as it bakes.

Bake the Meatloaf

1. Top with Glaze: Spoon the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spatula or spoon.
2. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you’re using a loaf pan, you can bake it for 10-15 minutes longer to ensure it’s cooked all the way through.

Rest and Serve

1. Let It Rest: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures a moist meatloaf.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Slice it into generous portions and serve with your favorite sides. It’s perfect with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350-400 calories (depending on portion sizes and ingredients)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve Easy Meatloaf

This easy meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it the perfect meal for any occasion:

• Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes. They’re perfect for soaking up that savory meatloaf gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add a lovely, healthy crunch to the meal.
• Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the rich, savory meatloaf.
• Bread: A slice of garlic bread or dinner rolls makes this meal even more comforting.

Additional Tips

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, try not to overmix, as it can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the mix for added flavor and texture.
• Use Lean Meat: For a leaner version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Just be sure to add extra moisture to keep it tender.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oatmeal for a gluten-free version.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?

A1: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze the meatloaf?

A2: Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf (before baking) for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding a bit more time to the baking.

Q3: Can I use a different kind of meat?

A3: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great alternatives. Just be aware that different meats may need slight adjustments in cooking time or moisture levels.

Q4: Can I add cheese to the meatloaf?

A4: Of course! You can mix shredded cheese into the meat mixture, or add cheese on top before baking for a melty, cheesy twist.

Q5: What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

A5: You can substitute with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar, but Worcestershire sauce really gives that signature flavor.

Q6: Can I make a smaller meatloaf?

A6: Yes, you can halve the recipe and make a smaller meatloaf. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?

A7: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven.

Q8: Can I use a loaf pan instead of a baking sheet?

A8: Yes, you can use a loaf pan. Just make sure to drain any excess fat after baking, as it may collect in the pan.

Q9: How do I make the glaze spicier?

A9: Add a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the glaze for an extra kick!

Q10: Can I make meatloaf without breadcrumbs?

A10: Yes, you can use oats or crushed crackers as a substitute for breadcrumbs. Just make sure the texture works for you!

Conclusion

This Easy Meatloaf is everything you could want in a classic, comforting meal—simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to hit the spot every time. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner, a meal prep favorite, or a cozy weekend treat, this meatloaf has got you covered. And don’t forget, the leftovers (if you have any!) make for an equally delicious lunch the next day.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and satisfying, whip up this Easy Meatloaf. Trust me, it’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

Print