What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade meatloaf recipe is packed with flavor and comfort, making it a family favorite for any occasion. You’ll love how simple it is to put together, even on a busy weeknight. It’s incredibly tender and juicy**, thanks to the perfect blend of ground beef and seasonings. The tangy glaze on top adds a sweet and savory kick that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dream**, so you can prepare it early and pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
Recipe
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any family dinner. This homemade meatloaf recipe is simple to make and packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Mix well until fully 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 the ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Add diced bell peppers or celery for extra flavor and texture.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Small bowl
- Meat thermometer
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6
Nutrition
Calories: 350 | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 15g
Protein: 28g | Cholesterol: 120mg | Sodium: 600mg
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes and roasted veggies for a hearty meal. When I’m feeling creative, I’ll throw in some garlic green beans or cornbread to balance the flavors. Don’t forget a tangy gravy or ketchup glaze—it ties everything together perfectly!
Side Dishes
Pairing the right side dishes with your meal can make it feel even more special, and I’ve got some favorites that always hit the spot. Mashed potatoes are a classic—creamy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up every bite of meatloaf. Roasted veggies, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a sweet, caramelized crunch that balances the dish. I also love a crisp green salad with a tangy dressing for something fresh. And don’t forget mac and cheese—it’s a comfort food combo that never disappoints. These sides turn a simple meatloaf dinner into a meal everyone will crave.
Complementary Flavors
When it comes to making meatloaf shine, the flavors you serve alongside it can truly elevate the meal. I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, their buttery richness balancing the savory meat. A side of roasted carrots or green beans adds a pop of color and freshness. Gravy is a must—it ties everything together with its comforting warmth. Sometimes, I’ll whip up a tangy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. And don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up the juices. These simple, complementary flavors make the meal feel complete, like a cozy hug on a plate.
