Classic Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy, Savory & Comforting

This meatloaf recipe is the kind of classic comfort that never goes out of style — juicy, flavorful, and topped with a sweet, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. Made with simple ingredients and baked to tender perfection, this dish brings that home-cooked warmth to every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s the ultimate slice of nostalgia made modern.

Classic Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy, Savory & Comforting
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl (for glaze)
- Oven thermometer Optional
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef 80/20 for best flavor
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley optional
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients and mix just until combined (do not overmix).
- Transfer mixture to loaf pan, pressing lightly to shape evenly.
- In a small bowl, whisk glaze ingredients together. Spread half over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake 45 minutes, remove from oven, spread remaining glaze, and bake 15–20 minutes more until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
🧊 Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra moisture.
- Add ½ cup shredded carrots or zucchini for hidden veggies.
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey and swap breadcrumbs for oats.
- Leftovers make amazing sandwiches the next day!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a full comfort meal.
- Drizzle extra glaze over each slice before serving.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp garden salad.

💬 Simple ingredients, classic flavor — this meatloaf feels like coming home to warmth and love.
— From The Recipe Host: Where flavor feels like home.
