Lunch & Dinner

The Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: The Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 1 cup dried bread crumbs; ½ cup milk; 1 large egg, beaten; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ½ cup finely diced yellow onion; ¼ cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Kathleen Looney March 26, 2025

Servings: 10 Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When I think of the perfect complement to a classic meatloaf, certain sides immediately come to mind. Creamy mashed potatoes are like a soft blanket on a chilly evening, bringing warmth and nostalgia.

Of course, roasted vegetables add a colorful crunch that lifts the whole meal. Don’t forget about a crisp side salad—something bright that cuts through the richness of the meatloaf. And for something really special?

A slice of homemade bread slathered with butter. So grab your favorite plate, and let’s dive into the world of that comforting favorite: meatloaf.

What is the Best Classic Meatloaf?

A great classic meatloaf is a harmonious blend of flavors—savory, slightly sweet, and rich in texture. With just the right amount of seasoning and moistness, it should hold together beautifully on your plate.

I’m excited to share my version with you today because it beautifully bridges familiar flavors with a little touch of flair.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

If you close your eyes and take a bite, you’ll experience a blend of hearty ground beef mingling with hints of onion, garlic, and a fusion of spices. The sauce on top, with its sweet and tangy notes, adds a delightful contrast.

This dish evokes comfort even on the most stressful of days. The crispy edges and moist center create this delightful dynamic that makes every bite interesting.

Why You’ll Love This?

You might be wondering: why should you invest your time making meatloaf? Well, it’s easy, affordable, and satisfying. It’s your one-stop meal—give it a side of veggies, and you’ve hit the jackpot.

Plus, meatloaf is endlessly customizable, perfect for those of us who enjoy putting our spin on classics. Oh, did I mention it’s freezer-friendly? It’s the kind of dish that keeps on giving.

Ingredients

Let’s get down to business! Here’s what you need:

For the Meatloaf:

1 lb. 90% lean ground beef
1 cup dried bread crumbs
½ cup milk
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried parsley
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ cup finely diced yellow onion

For the Topping:

¼ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy depth)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)

The Best Classic Meatloaf Copycat Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A well-heated oven is key for even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, beaten egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and diced onion. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spatula. Remember, overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so just blend until combined.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a grease-dusted loaf pan or shape it into a freeform loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Aim for an even shape, keeping in mind that a more uniform loaf cooks through at the same rate.

Step 4: Mix the Topping

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. This will create your sweet-and-tangy topping. Spread it evenly over the top of your shaped meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). You’ll know it’s done when the top is caramelized, and the edges are slightly crispy.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once it’s ready, let the meatloaf rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful experience.

Tips & Tricks

Utilize Equal Flavor Ratios: Maintain equal parts of meat and filler (like bread crumbs) for balance.
Upgrade Your Blend: Mix ground beef with pork or turkey for extra flavor.
Try Different Toppings: Experiment with barbecue sauce or salsa on top for a twist.
Add Flavor: Consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots for added veggies within the loaf.
Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook it fresh the next day for efficiency.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1 slice):

Calories: 267
Protein: 21g
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 364mg

How Can You Store This Classic Meatloaf?

Allow any leftover meatloaf to cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the fridge for about 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Just slice it first, wrap tightly, and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat until warmed through.

Ingredient Alternatives

Sometimes, life throws you a curveball, and you might lack some ingredients. Here are three potential alternatives:

Ground Beef Substitute: Use ground turkey or chicken. They offer a lighter option with similar texture.
Bread Crumbs Option: If you don’t have traditional breadcrumbs, crush up crackers or use oats as a binder in your recipe.
Milk Swap: Can’t find milk? A splash of broth or a plant-based milk works in a pinch.

Conclusion

In the end, the best classic meatloaf is more than just a dinner option; it embodies warmth, family, and culinary nostalgia.

This recipe brings together simple ingredients, time-tested methods, and a dash of love. I hope you find as much joy making and enjoying this dish as I do.

So gather your loved ones, set the table, and experience the comforting embrace of a hearty slice of meatloaf. Don’t be surprised if it’s the highlight of your week!

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The Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 55 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Servings: 10 Calories: 267 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

The aroma of meatloaf cooking in the oven is mesmerizing. It wafts through the house, wrapping you in a warm hug. Growing up, my mother made meatloaf almost every Sunday. I can recall the anticipation as I sat at the dinner table, eagerly awaiting that first slice.

Meatloaf isn’t just food; it’s a cherished memory for many. Today, I want to share the recipe that I believe qualifies as the best classic meatloaf, complete with my own insights, stories, and tips along the way.

Sit back, maybe pour a glass of wine, and let’s explore this beloved dish from an angle that makes it feel entirely new while deeply familiar.