Go Back
A slice of classic homemade meatloaf served with mashed potatoes and green beans

Classic Homemade Meatloaf

A hearty and comforting dish that brings families together, perfect for meal prepping and leftovers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs ground beef Choose a mix with some fat for best results.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional) For added flavor.
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish and shape it into an even loaf.
Glazing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  2. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Baking
  1. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
  2. Remove from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf.
  3. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Serving
  1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help keep it juicy.
  2. Slice and serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite side dishes.

Notes

For added flavor, you can include finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.