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Classic Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy, Savory & Comforting

This meatloaf recipe is juicy, savory, and topped with a sweet, tangy glaze — a comforting family favorite made with simple ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort food
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

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

💡 Don’t overmix the meat — gentle hands make tender meatloaf.

🧊 Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Keyword best meatloaf, classic meatloaf, easy meatloaf, juicy meatloaf, meatloaf recipe