Classic Meatloaf Recipes

Name: Classic Meatloaf Recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Staples

I absolutely love making classic meatloaf recipes, especially on cozy evenings when the smell of savory herbs fills the kitchen. The simple yet hearty combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a dish that evokes warm memories of family dinners. Each bite captures that comforting flavor, especially with a tangy glaze on top that takes it over the edge. With this recipe, you’ll learn my secret to keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful, ensuring it's a hit with everyone at the table!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:07:14.199Z

Throughout the years, I’ve perfected my classic meatloaf recipe to ensure it’s always a crowd-pleaser. One tip I've learned is to mix the meat gently rather than overworking it, as that helps maintain a juicy texture. I also love to add finely chopped vegetables into the mixture, which not only enhances the flavor but keeps the meatloaf moist.

Another thing that makes my meatloaf stand out is the glaze. I typically use a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of brown sugar to create a sweet and tangy topping that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. Trust me, this touch takes it from good to unforgettable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flavor-packed with a perfect balance of spices
Comfort food that’s easy to prepare and serve
Makes great leftovers for sandwiches or meals later in the week

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in meatloaf involves careful consideration of your ingredients. The combination of ground beef and ground pork not only provides a rich flavor but also contributes to a moist and tender outcome. I recommend using a blend that includes a bit of fat, as this aids in moisture retention. You can opt for 85% lean beef paired with pork for the best results. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so mix just until combined.

Another key element is the breadcrumbs, which act like a sponge to absorb moisture. Opt for fresh breadcrumbs if you can, as they contain more moisture than dried ones. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with crushed crackers or oats. For a gluten-free version, shredded zucchini or almond flour can work surprisingly well while keeping the meatloaf light and flavorful.

Glazing Techniques

The glaze is what elevates this meatloaf from ordinary to extraordinary. The combination of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also imparts a beautiful caramelized crust that defines a classic meatloaf. To enhance the glaze's flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

When applying the glaze, remember to reserve some for the final application during the last 15 minutes of baking. This will create a glossy finish that makes the meatloaf visually appealing. For those who prefer a low-sugar option, you can substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. Keep an eye on it in the final moments to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serving classic meatloaf can be as versatile as you want it to be. It pairs beautifully with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans, but it also complements lighter options like a fresh garden salad. For an extra touch, I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley on top before serving, which brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Don’t forget about the leftovers! Meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches. Simply slice the leftover meatloaf and layer it onto your favorite bread with mayonnaise, mustard, and pickles. For reheating, place slices in the microwave or oven to keep it warm and moist. If you have larger portions, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; they can be reheated directly from frozen.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano

For the Glaze

1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix gently until just combined.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet or loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.

Glaze and Bake

Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze on top and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cooked through.

Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chopped fresh herbs or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also substitute half of the beef for turkey for a leaner version.

Ingredient Substitutions

Flexibility with ingredients is a hallmark of any classic meatloaf recipe. If you're looking to reduce fat, substituting ground turkey or chicken is an option, but be mindful that these lean meats can dry out more quickly. To maintain moisture, consider incorporating grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini into the mixture. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of milk can provide flavor and keep the mixture cohesive without dairy.

For seasoning, fresh herbs can give a more pronounced flavor if available. Dried herbs work well but use about a third of the amount, as they are more concentrated. If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats can effortlessly swap out traditional breadcrumbs without losing that comforting texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

Meatloaf is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also makes dinner preparation a breeze. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you're looking to batch-cook, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just ensure that you use multiple loaf pans or a large baking tray to accommodate the volume. The baking time may increase slightly, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your meatloaf seems dry, it could be due to overcooking or using leaner meat without adding moisture components. To prevent dryness, try adding a bit more milk or grated vegetables to bolster juiciness. Additionally, ensure your oven is correctly calibrated, as inaccurate temperatures can significantly affect cooking time and moisture retention.

For a meatloaf that crumbles rather than slices, it might be that you didn't use enough binding agents like eggs or that the mix was overworked. Using the right type of breadcrumbs is also crucial, as some brands absorb more liquid than others. Experiment with the ratios until you find what holds together best for your preferred texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use only one type of meat?

Yes, you can use just ground beef or turkey for the entire recipe.

→ How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when using a meat thermometer.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Meatloaf freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container.

→ What should I serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.