Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of juicy beef, savory seasonings, and a rich, tangy glaze. This easy meatloaf recipe is packed with flavor and baked to perfection, making it a family favorite for generations. Whether you're serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal, this recipe guarantees a tender, moist loaf with just the right amount of crispiness on the edges.
In this step-by-step guide, you'll learn how to make the best meatloaf using simple ingredients. Plus, we’ll share pro tips to ensure it turns out flawless every time.
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Why You'll Love This Meatloaf Recipe
✔ Moist & Juicy: The perfect blend of breadcrumbs, milk, and egg keeps the meatloaf incredibly tender.
✔ Bold Flavor: A combination of onions, seasonings, and a rich ketchup glaze enhances every bite.
✔ Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table.
✔ Perfect for Leftovers: Slice it up for sandwiches, or reheat for a quick meal the next day!
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Ingredients & Their Role
For the Meatloaf:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended) – Provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
½ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the ingredients together while keeping the meatloaf tender.
½ cup milk – Adds moisture and prevents the meatloaf from drying out.
1 large egg – Acts as a binder, holding everything together.
½ onion, finely chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 tsp salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
¼ tsp black pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
For the Topping:
2 tbsp ketchup – Creates a classic sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or baking sheet.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✔ Ground beef
✔ Breadcrumbs
✔ Milk
✔ Egg
✔ Chopped onion
✔ Salt and black pepper
Use clean hands or a wooden spoon to gently mix everything until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet. Compact it just enough to hold its shape, but don’t press too hard.
4. Add the Ketchup Topping
Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a delicious sweet and tangy glaze.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
6. Let It Rest & Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping every slice moist and tender.
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Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf
✔ Use 80/20 ground beef – This ratio provides the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can result in a dry meatloaf.
✔ Don’t overmix – Gently mix the ingredients to keep the texture light and tender.
✔ Let it rest before slicing – This prevents the juices from escaping too soon.
✔ Customize the seasoning – Add garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, or smoked paprika for extra depth.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this classic meatloaf with these delicious sides for a complete meal:
✔ Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A buttery, fluffy side that soaks up all the juices.
✔ Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch.
✔ Buttery Dinner Rolls – Perfect for sopping up extra glaze.
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Final Thoughts – A Meatloaf Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again
This easy, classic meatloaf is the perfect go-to recipe when you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and comforting. With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, you’ll get a juicy, perfectly seasoned meatloaf every single time.
Make it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that brings everyone to the table!
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