Classic Meatloaf Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

The aroma of savory ground beef mingling with onions and herbs wafts through the air as you prepare for the ultimate comfort food experience. Picture a beautifully baked classic meatloaf resting on your kitchen counter, glistening with a sweet glaze that promises each slice will be a delicious blend of flavors and textures.

This classic meatloaf isn’t just a dish; it’s an invitation to gather around the dinner table and share stories. Remember family gatherings where laughter echoed between bites? That’s the magic this dish brings—perfect for cozy nights in or even potluck surprises!

I once made this classic meatloaf for my family reunion, and the way everyone devoured it reminded me of how food can bring us together.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy texture without too much grease.
• Breadcrumbs: They help bind everything together while adding texture; I prefer plain or Italian seasoned.
• Eggs: Two large eggs act as a binder; they keep your meatloaf from falling apart.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds moisture and sweetness; sauté it first for extra flavor.
• Ketchup: Use this for both flavoring inside and as a topping; it’s essential for that classic taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash enhances depth; it brings out savory notes beautifully.
• Garlic Powder: This adds aromatic richness; I often use fresh garlic if I have it on hand.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that should never be overlooked—season generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready when you are!

Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will make you smile.

Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands—it’s messy but fun!

Mold Your Meatloaf Shape: Transfer your mixture onto a greased baking sheet or loaf pan. Form it into an even loaf shape—think about how you want those slices to look!

Add Topping Glaze: Spread some additional ketchup over the top of your formed loaf. This creates that irresistible glaze while baking.

Bake Until Perfectly Done: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Your home will smell amazing!

Enjoy serving up slices of this classic meatloaf alongside mashed potatoes or steamed veggies—it’s pure comfort on a plate!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix all ingredients in one bowl, shape into a loaf, place in a pan, and bake until it’s cooked through—about 1 hour. This method ensures even cooking and flavor melding.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also try different seasonings like Italian herbs or barbecue sauce for extra flair. These tweaks can elevate your classic meatloaf to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—about 15-20 minutes for perfect warmth without drying out.

I remember the first time I made classic meatloaf for my family; they were skeptical at first but ended up asking for seconds! Their happy faces made all the effort worthwhile.

FAQ

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs in classic meatloaf?

Oats or crushed crackers are excellent substitutes for breadcrumbs.

How long should I bake my classic meatloaf?

Bake it for about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C) until fully cooked.

Can I freeze classic meatloaf?

Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months without losing quality.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Classic Meatloaf

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Classic meatloaf is a comforting dish that brings people together with its rich flavors and hearty texture. Perfect for family dinners, this easy-to-make recipe will surely become a favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in a drizzle of olive oil until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking sheet or loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
5. Spread additional ketchup over the top for glaze.
6. Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Notes

• For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
• Experiment with different seasonings like Italian herbs or barbecue sauce for added flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 80mg