meatloaf recipe

Meatloaf Recipe

Warm, juicy, and packed with classic flavor this homemade meatloaf recipe defines true comfort food. It blends ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onions, and seasonings, then finishes with a perfectly caramelized sweet-and-tangy glaze. Whether you’re searching for an easy meatloaf recipe with simple ingredients or the best meatloaf recipe that becomes a family staple, this version delivers every time.

meatloaf recipe
meatloaf recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) lean ground beef (80–85% lean)
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped and sautéed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder

Directions / How to Cook

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to simplify cleanup.
  2. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet and sauté the chopped onion for 5–7 minutes until golden and tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, sautéed onion, minced garlic, eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and ketchup. Mix lightly with your hands until everything is just combined overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches high, then place it on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
  6. While it bakes, prepare the glaze: whisk together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.
  7. After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top.
  8. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This step helps lock in the juices for a tender, moist texture.
meatloaf recipe
meatloaf recipe

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Yield: 1 loaf