Best Homemade Meatloaf Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Best Homemade Meatloaf Recipe delivers a classic comfort food experience—moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s easy to make, uses pantry staples, and is perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday meals. The blend of ground beef, seasonings, and breadcrumbs creates a tender, hearty loaf that slices beautifully every time.

ingredients

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

ground beef
breadcrumbs
milk
eggs
onion
garlic
ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Dijon mustard
salt
black pepper
dried parsley
brown sugar (for glaze)
apple cider vinegar (for glaze)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or foil.

In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak.

Add ground beef, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, and parsley.

Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined—avoid overmixing.

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

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to make the glaze.

Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking.

Bake for 45 minutes, then remove and add the remaining glaze on top.

Return to oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60–65 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor and moisture.
Add finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for texture.
Substitute BBQ sauce or tomato sauce for a different glaze.
Make mini meatloaves in a muffin tin for faster cooking and individual servings.

storage/reheating

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
Reheat slices in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and shape the loaf, then refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of meat is best for meatloaf?
80/20 ground beef is ideal for flavor and moisture without being too greasy.

Why is my meatloaf dry?
Overbaking or using lean meat can dry it out. Adding milk and not overmixing helps keep it moist.

Can I use oats instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, quick oats can be used in place of breadcrumbs.

What can I serve with meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a side salad pair well.

How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer—160°F (71°C) in the center is safe and fully cooked.

Can I cook meatloaf without a loaf pan?
Yes, form a freeform loaf on a lined baking sheet for crispier edges.

Can I add cheese to the meatloaf?
Yes, shredded cheddar or mozzarella can be mixed in or added as a layer in the center.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s mild, savory, and the sweet glaze is usually a hit with kids.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and divide into two loaves for best results.

Conclusion

This Best Homemade Meatloaf Recipe brings hearty flavor and satisfying texture to your dinner table. Simple to prepare and packed with rich, savory taste, it’s a timeless dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether served fresh or reheated, it’s a dependable favorite that belongs in every home cook’s rotation.

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