Classic Beef Meatloaf Recipe

I still remember the first time I made meatloaf. I wanted something comforting, filling, and easy to prepare, so I pulled out some ground beef and a few pantry staples. I mixed everything together, shaped it into a loaf, and popped it in the oven. When it came out, the kitchen smelled amazing, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in.

Now, meatloaf is one of my go-to recipes when I want a meal that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for leftovers. Plus, it pairs well with just about any side dish, making it a great option for family dinners.

Servings	Total
6	1hr

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned how to make meatloaf from my mom. She made it often when I was growing up, and it was always one of my favorite meals. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe a bit to make it my own, but it still has that classic, home-cooked taste that I remember from childhood.

Why Beef Meatloaf

Beef meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for meal prepping since it reheats well, and you can serve it with a variety of sides. Plus, the leftovers make great sandwiches the next day!

What Is Beef Meatloaf Made Of?

This dish is made with simple ingredients that blend together for a flavorful, tender loaf:

• Ground beef
• Bread crumbs
• Onion and garlic
• Egg
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Milk
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning)

What to Have with Beef Meatloaf

Meatloaf goes well with a variety of sides, including:

• Mashed potatoes: A creamy, classic side that pairs perfectly.
• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy touch.
• Mac and cheese: For an extra comforting meal.
• Dinner rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Is Beef Meatloaf Healthy?

Meatloaf can be a balanced meal when made with lean ground beef and paired with healthy sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also make it lighter by using whole wheat bread crumbs and reducing the amount of ketchup or sugar in the glaze.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board and knife
• Loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)
• ¾ cup bread crumbs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, diced onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
   • Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat or it may become tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   • Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and press it into an even shape.
4. Make the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
   • Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
   • Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
   • Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked but not overdone.
• For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or grated carrots to the mixture.
• If you don’t have a loaf pan, shape the meatloaf into a loaf shape and bake it on a lined baking sheet.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well, but reduce the baking time slightly as it can dry out faster.

2. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix and shape the meatloaf, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion

Classic beef meatloaf is a simple and comforting dish that never goes out of style. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a hearty family dinner. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or on a sandwich the next day, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep making. Try it out and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both easy and satisfying!

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