why make this recipe

Easy Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s simple to prepare and always satisfying. It’s a hearty dish that brings back memories for many, reminding us of home-cooked family dinners. This recipe is not only straightforward but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Plus, it’s versatile—great for leftovers and can be served in many ways.

how to make Easy Meatloaf

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
For topping:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard for the topping.
Spread the topping over the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until cooked through.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

how to serve Easy Meatloaf

Serve Easy Meatloaf warm, sliced into thick pieces. It goes well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it in between two slices of bread for a delicious meatloaf sandwich.

how to store Easy Meatloaf

To store Easy Meatloaf, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, just warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Easy Meatloaf

Make sure the ground beef is not too lean. A little fat adds flavor and moisture to the meatloaf.
For extra flavor, you can add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even diced bell peppers to the mix.
Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture; this can make it tough.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

variation

You can easily customize this Easy Meatloaf recipe by substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add shredded cheese or chopped veggies like carrots or peppers for a different twist.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when ready to cook.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (70°C) for safety. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the center—there should be no pink meat.

Easy Meatloaf

A classic comfort food that's simple to prepare and always satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 10

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 pounds ground beef Make sure it's not too lean.
1 cup breadcrumbs Can substitute with crushed crackers, oatmeal, or cooked rice.
0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
2 pieces eggs
0.5 cup milk
0.25 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
to taste Salt and pepper

Topping Ingredients

0.25 cup brown sugar
0.25 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons mustard

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard for the topping.
Spread the topping over the meatloaf.

Cooking

Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until cooked through.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Store Easy Meatloaf in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Keyword Comfort Food, easy dinner, Family Meal, Leftovers, meatloaf