Meatloaf lovers know this dish is more than just a dinner—it’s a flavour of family and comfort. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe delivers a juicy, flavourful loaf that’s perfect for family meals.
If you’ve been searching for a dinner idea that’s comforting and budget-friendly, this easy meatloaf recipe is exactly what you need.
This recipe doesn’t require hours in the kitchen—just a little love and a warm oven to bring it all together.
Where Did Meatloaf Originate?
The earliest known ancestor of meatloaf dates back to ancient Rome. A recipe recorded in the Roman cookbook Apicius describes a dish of minced meat mixed with bread, wine, and spices, shaped and cooked together.
Over the years, versions of baked or moulded meat dishes also appeared across Europe. In Germany, cooks prepared Leberkäse, a loaf made from finely ground meat and spices that bears a strong resemblance to modern meatloaf.
After World War II, the dish grew even more popular in American kitchens and catering menus.
Today, meatloaf is a reminder of how food evolves—taking old-world recipes and turning them into something new, comforting, and entirely our own.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Simple ingredients: made with everyday ingredients already in your kitchen.
Quick prep: just mix, shape, and bake.
Family favourite: A family-friendly dish that everyone can agree on
Customisable: Easily adapt with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make a Meatloaf Recipe
Here are the ingredients you need
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor and juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup (divided)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
For the glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Also, lightly grease a loaf pan.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
2. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ¼ cup ketchup, sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix until combined—don’t overmix it, or the meatloaf may turn dense.
3. Shape and Bake
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the pan port. Bake uncovered for about 50 to 55 minutes.
4. Add the Glaze
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. After 55 minutes, brush the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Rest and Serve
Keep the meatloaf resting for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside.
Can I Bake Meatloaf in a Loaf Pan?
Yes, you can absolutely bake meatloaf in a loaf pan, and in fact, it’s one of the most common methods for an easy meatloaf recipe for shaping and cooking this classic dish.
A loaf pan helps the meatloaf hold its shape, especially if you prefer neat, uniform slices. The pan also holds onto the moisture, keeping the meat moist as it bakes.
However, sometimes the meatloaf sits in its own juices; it can sometimes become a bit greasy. To avoid this, you can use lower-fat ground meat or drain off excess fat through baking.
Another option is to form the meatloaf by hand and bake it free-form on a baking sheet.
Both methods work—it just depends on your preference.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry and crumbly?
A dry, crumbly meatloaf is often the result of not having enough moisture in the mixture. To keep your meatloaf tender, make sure you include ingredients like eggs, milk, or broth, which add moisture and help bind the meat together.
Breadcrumbs, oats, or crushed crackers also play a key role by soaking up liquid and holding everything in place.
Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the meat. Gently combine the ingredients until they’re just blended—overworking the mixture can make the loaf tough.
Choosing the right meat also matters; using beef with some fat content helps keep the loaf juicy.
Can I Use Other Meats for Meatloaf?
Yes! Ground beef is traditional, but you can also use:
Ground turkey (lighter, leaner)
Ground pork (adds extra flavor)
Ground chicken (softer texture)
For the greatest flavour, try a combination of meats.
Tips for Making the Best Meatloaf
Moisture matters: Don’t skip the milk and eggs—they keep the ingredients tender.
Flavour boost: Add fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or hot sauce to the mixture.
Texture: If you prefer a firmer loaf, use less milk or add extra breadcrumbs.
Variations to Try
Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of mozzarella or cheddar in the center.
BBQ Meatloaf: Replace the ketchup glaze with smoky BBQ sauce.
What to Serve with Meatloaf
- Some classic options include:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Green beans or peas
- Mac and cheese
- A fresh garden salad
Final Thoughts
This easy meatloaf recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any
occasion.
Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, in a sandwich the next day, or as part of a big family meal, this recipe will quickly become a household favourite.
For More Information and Recipes Visit: Modernfoodcatering.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
A: Be sure to use enough binding agents, like eggs and breadcrumbs. Letting it rest after baking also helps it hold together.
Q: Can I make an easy meatloaf recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake when ready.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze meatloaf?
A: Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
