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Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Classic Homemade Meatloaf Recipe

Emily Hartwell
This easy and juicy meatloaf is full of flavor and topped with a sweet, tangy glaze. Perfect for family dinners, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 People
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs 900g ground beef, 85–90% lean
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cider vinegar or white vinegar

Instructions
 

  • Prep Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or lightly grease a loaf pan.
    Easy Meatloaf Recipe
  • Cook Onions: In a small skillet, sauté onions over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. Let cool slightly.
    Easy Meatloaf Recipe
  • Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, cooked onions and garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
    Easy Meatloaf Recipe
  • Shape and Bake: Form the mixture into a loaf shape (8x4 inches) and place on the prepared pan. Bake for 40 minutes.
    Easy Meatloaf Recipe
  • Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar.
    Easy Meatloaf Recipe
  • Glaze the Meatloaf: Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf and return to the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
    Easy Meatloaf Recipe
  • Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Spread remaining glaze on top if desired. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
    Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Notes

Tips & Variations

  • Mix Meats: Substitute half the beef with ground turkey, pork, or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Extra Moisture: Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes before mixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce to the mixture for extra depth.
  • Loaf Pan Option: Use a loaf pan instead of a baking sheet for a taller meatloaf, but it may require a few extra minutes to bake through.