America’s Most Craved: The Classic Meatloaf Recipe Taking Over Kitchens

Classic meatloaf recipe lovers, rejoice — the humble meatloaf is making a major comeback. No longer the dry, ketchup-drenched loaf from childhood dinners, this updated version is moist, flavorful, and packed with just the right balance of savory richness and homestyle nostalgia.

Made with ground beef, aromatic seasonings, and a perfectly caramelized glaze, this meatloaf hits every comfort food note without being heavy or bland. It’s the kind of dinner that brings everyone back to the table — and the leftovers? They’re legendary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this recipe

• Perfectly moist and never dry
• Classic ingredients with modern flavor upgrades
• Versatile — easy to adapt for low-carb or gluten-free diets
• Delicious hot, cold, or sandwiched between toasted bread
• Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Mix the meatloaf
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, garlic, ketchup, parsley, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until fully incorporated (do not overmix).
3. Shape the loaf
   Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it into the prepared pan or onto a lined baking sheet.
4. Make the glaze
   In a small bowl, mix glaze ingredients. Brush half over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake
   Bake for 45 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and continue baking for another 15–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and serve
   Let meatloaf rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 17 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 7 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories: 383 per serving

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 383
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbs: 18g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 439mg

Estimates based on standard ingredients.

Tips & Variations

• Want it leaner? Use 90/10 ground beef or a 50/50 mix of beef and ground turkey.
• Make it keto: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds; replace milk with heavy cream; use sugar-free ketchup.
• Sneak in veggies: Grated carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms add moisture and nutrients without changing the flavor.
• Prefer free-form? Bake on a sheet pan for a crustier exterior.
• Use a thermometer: Ensure your loaf reaches 160°F for safe, juicy results.

Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Juicy, flavorful, and topped with a tangy glaze — this classic meatloaf recipe is the ultimate family comfort food.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 17 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 7 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Course: dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 383

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• #### For the Meatloaf:
• – 2 lbs ground beef 80–85% lean
• – 1 medium onion finely chopped
• – 2 large eggs
• – ¾ cup milk
• – ¾ cup breadcrumbs
• – 3 cloves garlic minced
• – ¼ cup ketchup
• – 2 tbsp fresh parsley
• – 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• – 1½ tsp salt
• – ½ tsp black pepper
• – ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• #### For the Glaze:
• – ½ cup ketchup
• – 2 tbsp brown sugar
• – 1 tsp white vinegar
• – ½ tsp garlic powder
• – ¼ tsp onion powder

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• – Loaf pan or baking sheet
• – Meat thermometer
• – Silicone brush

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a loaf pan or line a sheet pan with foil.
2. In a large bowl, combine meatloaf ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf. Place in pan or on sheet.
4. Mix glaze ingredients. Brush half on top.
5. Bake for 45 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze. Bake 15–30 minutes more, or until internal temp is 160°F.
6. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

– Substitute beef with turkey or a 50/50 mix
– Keto-friendly: Use almond flour, cream, and sugar-free ketchup
– Freeze raw or baked for easy meal prep

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well, though the texture will be slightly softer. Mix with a little ground beef for flavor depth.

How do I keep it from drying out?
Use enough moisture (milk, eggs), don’t overmix, and don’t overbake. A thermometer helps nail the perfect doneness.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes — shape the loaf and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Wrap slices in foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes. Freeze the raw loaf (tightly wrapped) or baked leftovers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf recipe is everything you want in a nostalgic, comforting dinner — rich in flavor, easy to make, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re craving a hearty Sunday meal, prepping for busy weekdays, or simply feeding a hungry family, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your regular dinner rotation.