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Best Ever Classic Meatloaf Tasty Comfort Food Recipe

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Looking for a recipe that warms your heart and fills your belly? My Best Ever Classic Meatloaf is just the comfort food you need. This simple recipe brings together rich flavors and juicy textures. You can easily prepare it with common ingredients you likely have on hand. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a beautiful meatloaf that will impress everyone at the dinner table. Let’s dive in!

To make the best classic meatloaf, gather these key ingredients: - 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - ½ cup milk - 1 large egg - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and hearty dish. You can add extra zest to your meatloaf with these items: - Chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme - A splash of hot sauce for heat - Shredded cheese mixed in or on top - Diced mushrooms for a savory depth - Chopped bacon for a smoky flavor Feel free to mix and match these to suit your taste. To prepare your meatloaf, you will need: - A large mixing bowl - A loaf pan - A cutting board and knife - A whisk for mixing wet ingredients - Measuring cups and spoons - A spatula for mixing Having these tools ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start with fresh ingredients. Gather your items first. You will need: - 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - ½ cup milk - 1 large egg - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Chop the onion and bell pepper finely. Mince the garlic. Measure all ingredients before starting. This makes mixing easier. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything blends. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds moisture and flavor. Slowly pour it into the meat mixture. Use your hands to mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix. You want a soft but firm mixture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that fits snugly in the pan. Make sure it is even all around. Spread a layer of ketchup over the top. This adds flavor and keeps it moist. Bake in the oven for about 1 hour. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C). After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Slice and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with mashed potatoes and veggies for a hearty meal. To boost your meatloaf flavor, think layers. Start with fresh herbs like parsley. Add spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for warmth. You can also mix in some grated cheese, like Parmesan, for richness. A splash of hot sauce can add a nice kick. Always taste your meat mixture before baking. Adjust the seasoning to fit your preference. Mixing meatloaf requires care. Use your hands, but be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf. Combine the meats and other ingredients until just blended. When shaping, form a loaf that fits snugly in your pan. This helps it cook evenly. Leave some space around the edges for heat to circulate. Resting your meatloaf is key. After baking, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This time allows the juices to redistribute. If you slice too soon, the juices will run out. A perfectly rested meatloaf will stay moist and flavorful. Enjoy the slices with your favorite sides for a truly hearty meal. Pro Tips Use lean beef: Opting for 80% lean ground beef provides a good balance of flavor and moisture while keeping the meatloaf hearty without being greasy. Add vegetables: Incorporating finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery not only enhances flavor but also adds nutrition and moisture to the meatloaf. Rest before slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps retain its juices, making it easier to slice and more enjoyable to eat. Customize the glaze: Feel free to experiment with the topping by mixing ketchup with brown sugar, mustard, or barbecue sauce for a unique flavor twist. {{image_2}} You can swap ground beef for other meats. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Pork adds a nice flavor, too. Mixing meats can give you a tasty twist. A blend of beef and pork works well. It adds both flavor and moisture. Use about 1 pound of beef and ½ pound of pork for great results. If you want a meatless loaf, use lentils or chickpeas. Start with 1 cup of cooked lentils. Mash them up and mix with breadcrumbs. Add finely chopped veggies like carrots and zucchini. For binding, use flaxseed meal or tofu. This can replace the egg. Season it well for full flavor. A vegan Worcestershire sauce will work great, too. Spice up your meatloaf with herbs and spices. Try adding paprika or cumin for warmth. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. You can also toss in some grated cheese for richness. Diced mushrooms add moisture and umami. Experiment with different veggies like spinach or corn. Each twist makes a unique dish! After enjoying your meatloaf, let it cool. This helps keep it fresh. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store your meatloaf in the fridge. It will stay good for up to four days. To reheat meatloaf, slice it first. This helps it heat evenly. Place the slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat on medium power for one to two minutes. You can also use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can freeze meatloaf for later meals. Wrap cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. Your meatloaf can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy this easy comfort food anytime! The best ground meat for meatloaf is 80% lean ground beef. This mix gives you a juicy and tasty result. You can also use ground turkey or pork for a lighter option. The key is to have enough fat for flavor. You know meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. If you cut into the loaf and see pink, it needs more time. Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps keep it moist. Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and shape it into a loaf. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw before baking. This makes meal prep easy! In this post, we explored how to make classic meatloaf. We covered essential ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions. You learned helpful tips and tricks for flavor and texture. We also discussed tasty variations for every diet and storage options for leftovers. Meatloaf is simple and fun to make. With your new skills, you can enjoy flavorful meals all week long. Get creative and make it your own!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comfort Food Classic: This meatloaf recipe brings back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings, making it a perfect comfort food choice.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and busy weeknights.
  3. Customizable Flavors: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or even vegetables to suit your taste.
  4. Delicious Leftovers: This meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it a great choice for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf

To make the best classic meatloaf, gather these key ingredients:

  1. 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
  2. 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
  3. 1 small onion, finely chopped
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. ½ cup milk
  6. 1 large egg
  7. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  8. 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  9. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  10. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  11. Salt and pepper to taste
  12. ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced
  13. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and hearty dish.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

You can add extra zest to your meatloaf with these items:

  1. Chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme
  2. A splash of hot sauce for heat
  3. Shredded cheese mixed in or on top
  4. Diced mushrooms for a savory depth
  5. Chopped bacon for a smoky flavor

Feel free to mix and match these to suit your taste.

Tools Needed for Preparation

To prepare your meatloaf, you will need:

  1. A large mixing bowl
  2. A loaf pan
  3. A cutting board and knife
  4. A whisk for mixing wet ingredients
  5. Measuring cups and spoons
  6. A spatula for mixing

Having these tools ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Ingredients

Start with fresh ingredients. Gather your items first. You will need:

  1. 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
  2. 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
  3. 1 small onion, finely chopped
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. ½ cup milk
  6. 1 large egg
  7. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  8. 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  9. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  10. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  11. Salt and pepper to taste
  12. ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced
  13. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Chop the onion and bell pepper finely. Mince the garlic. Measure all ingredients before starting. This makes mixing easier.

Mixing the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything blends.

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds moisture and flavor. Slowly pour it into the meat mixture.

Use your hands to mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix. You want a soft but firm mixture.

Baking and Achieving the Perfect Texture

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that fits snugly in the pan. Make sure it is even all around. Spread a layer of ketchup over the top. This adds flavor and keeps it moist.

Bake in the oven for about 1 hour. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C).

After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Slice and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with mashed potatoes and veggies for a hearty meal.

Tips & Tricks

How to Enhance Meatloaf Flavor

To boost your meatloaf flavor, think layers. Start with fresh herbs like parsley. Add spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for warmth. You can also mix in some grated cheese, like Parmesan, for richness. A splash of hot sauce can add a nice kick. Always taste your meat mixture before baking. Adjust the seasoning to fit your preference.

Best Practices for Mixing and Shaping

Mixing meatloaf requires care. Use your hands, but be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf. Combine the meats and other ingredients until just blended. When shaping, form a loaf that fits snugly in your pan. This helps it cook evenly. Leave some space around the edges for heat to circulate.

Resting Time Importance

Resting your meatloaf is key. After baking, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This time allows the juices to redistribute. If you slice too soon, the juices will run out. A perfectly rested meatloaf will stay moist and flavorful. Enjoy the slices with your favorite sides for a truly hearty meal.

Pro Tips

  1. Use lean beef: Opting for 80% lean ground beef provides a good balance of flavor and moisture while keeping the meatloaf hearty without being greasy.
  2. Add vegetables: Incorporating finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery not only enhances flavor but also adds nutrition and moisture to the meatloaf.
  3. Rest before slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps retain its juices, making it easier to slice and more enjoyable to eat.
  4. Customize the glaze: Feel free to experiment with the topping by mixing ketchup with brown sugar, mustard, or barbecue sauce for a unique flavor twist.

Variations

Alternative Meat Options

You can swap ground beef for other meats. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Pork adds a nice flavor, too. Mixing meats can give you a tasty twist. A blend of beef and pork works well. It adds both flavor and moisture. Use about 1 pound of beef and ½ pound of pork for great results.

Vegetarian or Vegan Meatloaf Ideas

If you want a meatless loaf, use lentils or chickpeas. Start with 1 cup of cooked lentils. Mash them up and mix with breadcrumbs. Add finely chopped veggies like carrots and zucchini. For binding, use flaxseed meal or tofu. This can replace the egg. Season it well for full flavor. A vegan Worcestershire sauce will work great, too.

Flavor Twists: Spices and Add-ins

Spice up your meatloaf with herbs and spices. Try adding paprika or cumin for warmth. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. You can also toss in some grated cheese for richness. Diced mushrooms add moisture and umami. Experiment with different veggies like spinach or corn. Each twist makes a unique dish!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Meatloaf

After enjoying your meatloaf, let it cool. This helps keep it fresh. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store your meatloaf in the fridge. It will stay good for up to four days.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Taste

To reheat meatloaf, slice it first. This helps it heat evenly. Place the slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat on medium power for one to two minutes. You can also use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.

Freezing Meatloaf for Later Use

You can freeze meatloaf for later meals. Wrap cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. Your meatloaf can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy this easy comfort food anytime!

FAQs

What is the best ground meat for meatloaf?

The best ground meat for meatloaf is 80% lean ground beef. This mix gives you a juicy and tasty result. You can also use ground turkey or pork for a lighter option. The key is to have enough fat for flavor.

How do you know when meatloaf is done?

You know meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. If you cut into the loaf and see pink, it needs more time. Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps keep it moist.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and shape it into a loaf. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw before baking. This makes meal prep easy!

In this post, we explored how to make classic meatloaf. We covered essential ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions. You learned helpful tips and tricks for flavor and texture. We also discussed tasty variations for every diet and storage options for leftovers.

Meatloaf is simple and fun to make. With your new skills, you can enjoy flavorful meals all week long. Get creative and make it your ow

To make the best classic meatloaf, gather these key ingredients: - 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - ½ cup milk - 1 large egg - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and hearty dish. You can add extra zest to your meatloaf with these items: - Chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme - A splash of hot sauce for heat - Shredded cheese mixed in or on top - Diced mushrooms for a savory depth - Chopped bacon for a smoky flavor Feel free to mix and match these to suit your taste. To prepare your meatloaf, you will need: - A large mixing bowl - A loaf pan - A cutting board and knife - A whisk for mixing wet ingredients - Measuring cups and spoons - A spatula for mixing Having these tools ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start with fresh ingredients. Gather your items first. You will need: - 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - ½ cup milk - 1 large egg - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Chop the onion and bell pepper finely. Mince the garlic. Measure all ingredients before starting. This makes mixing easier. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything blends. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds moisture and flavor. Slowly pour it into the meat mixture. Use your hands to mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix. You want a soft but firm mixture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that fits snugly in the pan. Make sure it is even all around. Spread a layer of ketchup over the top. This adds flavor and keeps it moist. Bake in the oven for about 1 hour. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C). After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Slice and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with mashed potatoes and veggies for a hearty meal. To boost your meatloaf flavor, think layers. Start with fresh herbs like parsley. Add spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for warmth. You can also mix in some grated cheese, like Parmesan, for richness. A splash of hot sauce can add a nice kick. Always taste your meat mixture before baking. Adjust the seasoning to fit your preference. Mixing meatloaf requires care. Use your hands, but be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf. Combine the meats and other ingredients until just blended. When shaping, form a loaf that fits snugly in your pan. This helps it cook evenly. Leave some space around the edges for heat to circulate. Resting your meatloaf is key. After baking, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This time allows the juices to redistribute. If you slice too soon, the juices will run out. A perfectly rested meatloaf will stay moist and flavorful. Enjoy the slices with your favorite sides for a truly hearty meal. Pro Tips Use lean beef: Opting for 80% lean ground beef provides a good balance of flavor and moisture while keeping the meatloaf hearty without being greasy. Add vegetables: Incorporating finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery not only enhances flavor but also adds nutrition and moisture to the meatloaf. Rest before slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps retain its juices, making it easier to slice and more enjoyable to eat. Customize the glaze: Feel free to experiment with the topping by mixing ketchup with brown sugar, mustard, or barbecue sauce for a unique flavor twist. {{image_2}} You can swap ground beef for other meats. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Pork adds a nice flavor, too. Mixing meats can give you a tasty twist. A blend of beef and pork works well. It adds both flavor and moisture. Use about 1 pound of beef and ½ pound of pork for great results. If you want a meatless loaf, use lentils or chickpeas. Start with 1 cup of cooked lentils. Mash them up and mix with breadcrumbs. Add finely chopped veggies like carrots and zucchini. For binding, use flaxseed meal or tofu. This can replace the egg. Season it well for full flavor. A vegan Worcestershire sauce will work great, too. Spice up your meatloaf with herbs and spices. Try adding paprika or cumin for warmth. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. You can also toss in some grated cheese for richness. Diced mushrooms add moisture and umami. Experiment with different veggies like spinach or corn. Each twist makes a unique dish! After enjoying your meatloaf, let it cool. This helps keep it fresh. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store your meatloaf in the fridge. It will stay good for up to four days. To reheat meatloaf, slice it first. This helps it heat evenly. Place the slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat on medium power for one to two minutes. You can also use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can freeze meatloaf for later meals. Wrap cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. Your meatloaf can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy this easy comfort food anytime! The best ground meat for meatloaf is 80% lean ground beef. This mix gives you a juicy and tasty result. You can also use ground turkey or pork for a lighter option. The key is to have enough fat for flavor. You know meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. If you cut into the loaf and see pink, it needs more time. Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps keep it moist. Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and shape it into a loaf. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw before baking. This makes meal prep easy! In this post, we explored how to make classic meatloaf. We covered essential ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions. You learned helpful tips and tricks for flavor and texture. We also discussed tasty variations for every diet and storage options for leftovers. Meatloaf is simple and fun to make. With your new skills, you can enjoy flavorful meals all week long. Get creative and make it your own!

Hearty Homestyle Meatloaf

A delicious and comforting meatloaf made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a blend of seasonings, topped with ketchup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 0.5 cup bell pepper, finely diced
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the meat and breadcrumbs. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
  • Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf that fits snugly within the pan.
  • Spread a layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  • Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Slice the meatloaf and fan the slices on a serving platter. Drizzle extra ketchup or a savory glaze over the top, and serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Keyword beef, comfort food, meatloaf

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