What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade meatloaf recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, and you’ll love how simple it is to customize. Juicy and tender, every bite is filled with savory goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy to prepare, it comes together with basic ingredients you likely already have on hand. Versatile and comforting, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, veggies, or your favorite sides.
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup ketchup and brown sugar. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
For added flavor, consider mixing in grated Parmesan cheese or chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
Equipment:
Large mixing bowl, loaf pan or baking sheet, small bowl, oven.
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
6-8 servings
Nutrition
This homemade meatloaf recipe provides a balanced meal with essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 25g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade meatloaf with classic side dishes, like creamy mashed potatoes or steamed green beans, to complete the meal. A glass of red wine or iced tea works perfectly to balance the richness of the dish. Don’t forget a warm dinner roll or cornbread for that extra cozy touch!
Side Dishes
Pairing the right sides with your meal can make it even more satisfying, and there’s no shortage of options. I love serving creamy mashed potatoes—they’re a classic for soaking up meatloaf’s juices. Roasted veggies, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a crispy contrast. A simple green salad with tangy dressing cuts through the richness, while buttery cornbread brings a sweet touch. If I’m feeling fancy, garlicky green beans or cheesy scalloped potatoes steal the show. Don’t forget mac and cheese for a comforting combo! Mix and match to find your perfect plate—it’s all about what makes you happy.
Beverage Pairings
After picking out the perfect side dishes, it’s fun to think about what drinks can round out the meal. For me, a classic glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the rich flavors of meatloaf beautifully. If you’re not into wine, a cold beer, maybe a stout or amber ale, works just as well. For a non-alcoholic option, I love sipping on sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime—it’s invigorating and light. Sweet tea or even a tangy lemonade can also pair nicely, especially if your meatloaf has a slightly sweet glaze. Cheers to a perfect meal!
