Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Meatloaf Recipe delivers a juicy, tender loaf full of classic flavor and topped with a rich, tangy glaze. With a perfect balance of beef, seasonings, and moisture from onions and breadcrumbs, this hearty dish is comforting, easy to make, and always a family favorite. Ideal for weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers, it’s a timeless meal that never disappoints.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

The Best Meatloaf Recipe 10 The Best Meatloaf Recipe delivers a juicy, tender loaf full of classic flavor and topped with a rich, tangy glaze. With a perfect balance of beef, seasonings, and moisture from onions and breadcrumbs, this hearty dish is comforting, easy to make, and always a family favorite. Ideal for weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers, it's a timeless meal that never disappoints.

ground beef (80/20 preferred)onion (finely chopped)garlic (minced)breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)milkeggsketchupWorcestershire sauceDijon mustardsalt and pepperdried thyme or Italian seasoning

**For the glaze:**ketchupbrown sugarapple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)Dijon mustard (optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment or foil.

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs.

Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—do not overmix.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place on the prepared baking sheet or in a loaf pan.

In a small bowl, mix the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard if using.

Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.

Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Remove from oven, spread on the remaining glaze, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 55–60 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Add shredded carrots or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrients.

Use ground turkey or pork for a lighter version.

Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy kick.

Top with crispy fried onions or cheese for a different texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the loaf and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.

Why is my meatloaf dry?

Be sure not to overbake, and include moisture-rich ingredients like milk, onion, and eggs.

Can I use oatmeal instead of breadcrumbs?

Yes, quick oats are a great alternative for a gluten-free option.

What’s the best beef-to-fat ratio?

80/20 ground beef offers the best balance of flavor and moisture.

Should I cook it in a pan or freeform?

Both work, but freeform allows for more even cooking and glaze coverage.

Conclusion

The Best Meatloaf Recipe is everything you want in a comfort food classic—juicy, flavorful, and topped with a sweet-savory glaze. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and even better as leftovers. Whether for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this meatloaf will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.