Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
When it comes to classic comfort food, nothing beats a homemade meatloaf. With its tender texture, rich flavor, and signature ketchup glaze, this dish has been a staple on dinner tables for generations. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe for Classic Meatloaf is both delicious and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Meatloaf Recipe
This meatloaf strikes the perfect balance between traditional flavors and modern simplicity. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Tender and Juicy: The addition of milk and breadcrumbs ensures a moist, tender texture.
- Packed with Flavor: A blend of garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and ketchup adds depth and richness.
- Family-Friendly: Its familiar taste and simplicity make it a hit with both kids and adults.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Pairings: Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe uses classic ingredients and techniques to create a meatloaf that’s flavorful, moist, and perfectly textured. The combination of breadcrumbs and milk keeps the loaf tender, while the chopped onion and bell pepper add moisture and a hint of sweetness. Worcestershire sauce and smoked paprika elevate the flavor profile, and the ketchup glaze provides a tangy, slightly sweet finish that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef: The star ingredient for a hearty base.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the loaf and maintain a tender texture.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory depth of the loaf.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- ½ cup milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist.
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus ¼ cup for topping): Adds tangy sweetness to the loaf and glaze.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Infuses the dish with umami-rich flavor.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances and balances the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds mild heat and seasoning.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional): Provides a subtle smoky depth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds color and freshness to the finished dish.
How to Make Classic Meatloaf
Follow these simple steps to create a meatloaf that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
2. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, egg, milk, ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring it’s evenly shaped for consistent cooking.
4. Add the Glaze
Spread the remaining ¼ cup of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, smoothing it into an even layer to create a flavorful glaze.
5. Bake
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Garnish
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender result. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the meatloaf into portions and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Classic Meatloaf
- Choose the Right Meat: Use ground beef with moderate fat content (85/15) to keep the meatloaf moist without being greasy.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: Combine the ingredients just until evenly mixed to prevent a dense, tough texture.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of dried thyme or oregano to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Customize the Glaze: Mix the ketchup with a bit of brown sugar or mustard for a sweeter or tangier glaze.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure the meatloaf is perfectly cooked without overbaking.
Serving Suggestions
This classic meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides for a comforting and satisfying meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for meatloaf.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
- Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread adds extra indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted for ground beef, but the cooking time may vary.
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the meatloaf and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze meatloaf?
A: Yes, meatloaf freezes well. Wrap the uncooked loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A: Absolutely! Finely chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and moisture.
Q: How can I make the meatloaf gluten-free?
A: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Q: Can I make individual portions?
A: Yes! Divide the mixture into muffin tins for mini meatloaves. Adjust the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Meatloaf is a timeless recipe that combines rich flavors, tender texture, and comforting nostalgia in one dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday suppers, or even meal prep for the week.
Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the satisfying warmth of homemade comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this meatloaf is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and rediscover the joy of this classic dish!
Classic Meatloaf: A Comforting and Flavorful Family Favorite
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
This classic meatloaf combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a flavorful mix of spices, topped with a tangy ketchup glaze. Tender, juicy, and easy to make, it’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup ketchup (plus 1/4 cup for topping)
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, egg, milk, ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well until evenly combined.
3. Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it to ensure even cooking.
4. Spread the remaining ¼ cup of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, creating a smooth glaze.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
### Tip:
Pair this comforting meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
### Cooking Tip:
Avoid over-mixing the meat mixture, as it can make the meatloaf dense and tough; just combine until ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 65