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Few dishes evoke a sense of home and tradition quite like meatloaf. This Classic Homemade Meatloaf recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a comforting reminder of family dinners, shared stories, and nostalgic flavors. Packed with seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a perfectly balanced combination of spices, this dish has stood the test of time as a staple in kitchens worldwide.

Dating back to the late 19th century, meatloaf was originally a frugal way to stretch protein by combining ground meat with breadcrumbs and other pantry staples. Over the decades, it has evolved into a culinary icon, customized with regional and family variations. From the tangy sweetness of ketchup to the subtle warmth of paprika, this recipe blends tradition with modern flavors to create a dish that’s satisfying, flavorful, and deeply comforting.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or as the centerpiece of a holiday dinner, meatloaf is versatile, budget-friendly, and universally loved. This recipe walks you through creating a moist, flavorful loaf that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

Ground beef: 1.8 kg (4 lb)
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Red bell pepper: 1 medium, finely chopped

Breadcrumbs: 80 g (2.8 oz)
Ketchup: 80 g (2.8 oz)
Eggs: 3 large

Salt: 8 g (0.3 oz)
Black pepper: 4 g (0.1 oz)
Sweet paprika: 8 g (0.3 oz)

Dried parsley: 8 g (0.3 oz)
Granulated garlic: 8 g (0.3 oz)

Optional Glaze:

Ketchup: 60 g (2 oz)

Brown sugar: 30 g (1 oz)
Mustard: 1 tsp

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

How to Make Classic Homemade Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a loaf pan or baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Chop the onion and red bell pepper finely. You want small pieces so they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, breadcrumbs, ketchup, and eggs.
Add the seasonings: salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, dried parsley, and granulated garlic.

Using clean hands or a spatula, gently mix the ingredients until everything is evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf by hand and place it on a baking sheet.
Press down gently to compact the mixture, ensuring it holds its shape while cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Optional Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a glossy, flavorful finish.

Step 5: Bake

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Servings and Nutritional Information

Servings: 8 generous slices
Calories (per serving): ~350 kcal

Protein: 27 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 23 g

Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: ~550 mg

Why Meatloaf Is a Timeless Recipe

Meatloaf has remained a staple of family dining for decades, and it’s easy to see why. This dish is the epitome of comfort food: warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Its flexibility allows for endless variations to suit any taste or dietary requirement, making it a universal favorite.

The beauty of meatloaf lies in its balance of simplicity and sophistication. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s both humble and elegant. It’s a canvas for creativity—experiment with different spices, add cheese for a gooey center, or incorporate vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to boost nutrition.

Meatloaf’s timelessness also stems from its practicality. It’s affordable, made with ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it feeds a crowd. Plus, it’s just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. For a richer flavor, consider a combination of meats, such as beef and pork.

2. How do I prevent my meatloaf from drying out?
The breadcrumbs and eggs act as binders and help retain moisture. Adding a glaze or covering the meatloaf with foil during baking can also help keep it juicy.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

4. What can I serve with meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a simple salad are classic pairings that complement the richness of meatloaf.

Tips for Making the Perfect Meatloaf

Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat mixture can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Use a Thermometer: To ensure the meatloaf is cooked through without overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).
Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking ensures it slices cleanly and retains its juices.

Customize the Seasonings: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or grated Parmesan cheese for extra depth of flavor.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing: Meatloaf freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To prevent dryness, reheat meatloaf in the oven at 180°C (356°F), covered with foil, until warmed through.

Conclusion

Classic Homemade Meatloaf is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to tradition, a celebration of flavors, and a testament to the art of home cooking. With its balance of simplicity and versatility, meatloaf has earned its place as a beloved dish across cultures and generations.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday feast, this meatloaf recipe promises to deliver on flavor and comfort. Its tender texture, rich seasonings, and optional glaze create a dish that’s both nostalgic and modern. And with easy-to-follow steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embrace the joy of making a meal that brings people together. This meatloaf isn’t just food—it’s a memory in the making, a dish that will be cherished and shared for years to come.