What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for Sunday dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a foolproof dish that delivers comfort and flavor every time.
- Effortless Prep: Minimal chopping and mixing mean you can have it ready in no time.
- Versatile Flavor: Customize with your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch every time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Enjoy the delicious simplicity and the warmth it brings to your table!
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Recipe
This homemade easy meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food that is simple to prepare and perfect for a family dinner. It’s flavorful, moist, and sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup ketchup, divided
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup ketchup. Mix well.
- 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 remaining ¼ cup ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake 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 a juicier meatloaf, you can use a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
Equipment
Large mixing bowl, loaf pan or baking sheet, oven
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 6
Nutrition
This easy homemade meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s both delicious and satisfying. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Total Carbs | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 28g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my meatloaf with classic side dishes, like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery green beans, for a comforting meal. If I’m craving something lighter, I’ll toss together a fresh salad with crisp veggies and a tangy vinaigrette. Both options add balance and keep the meal satisfying without overshadowing the star of the show, the meatloaf.
Classic Side Dishes
While meatloaf is the star of the show, it’s the side dishes that really make the meal shine. I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, which are perfect for soaking up all that rich gravy. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add a pop of color and a fresh crunch. Don’t forget a buttery cornbread muffin—it’s my go-to for a little sweetness alongside the savory meatloaf. When I’m feeling extra cozy, I’ll throw in some mac and cheese for a comforting combo. These classics never fail to round out the dish and make it feel like a hearty, complete meal.
Fresh Salad Options
A crisp, fresh salad is the perfect way to balance the hearty richness of meatloaf. I love tossing together a simple garden salad with romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots—it’s colorful and invigorating. Sometimes, I’ll add a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy ranch dressing for extra flavor. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll throw in some crumbled feta or toasted nuts for crunch. A Caesar salad with garlicky croutons is another favorite of mine. It’s quick to make and pairs so well with meatloaf. Whichever salad I choose, it always makes the meal feel complete and satisfying.
