Meatloaf is one of those timeless comfort foods that never goes out of style. Known for its tender texture and savory flavor, this dish is a family favorite across generations. Whether you are preparing a hearty weeknight dinner or planning a cozy meal for guests, a homemade meatloaf offers both satisfaction and versatility.
The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings creates a dish that is filling yet easy to customize with herbs, sauces, or vegetables. What makes meatloaf particularly appealing is how simple it is to put together and how well it pairs with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads. The balance of flavors and the moist texture come from the right blend of ingredients and careful baking.
With this recipe, you will create a meatloaf that is tender on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and glazed with a flavorful topping that ties everything together. Perfect for beginners as well as experienced cooks, this meatloaf recipe guarantees a wholesome meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean for the best balance of flavor and juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a standard loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the meatloaf mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is well combined, being careful not to overmix as that can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan or directly on the lined baking sheet. Smooth the top to ensure even cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze. Spread half of this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. After this initial baking time, remove the loaf and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return it to the oven and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once fully cooked, allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and tender slices.
- Serve the meatloaf warm with your choice of side dishes such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and make excellent sandwiches the next day, making this recipe both practical and delicious.