Meatloaf can evoke both hearty satisfaction and childhood memories in equal measure. You might think of it as an uninspiring dish, yet it has the potential to become a family favorite with just a few tweaks. Knowing how to balance flavors and textures can elevate your meatloaf from ordinary to extraordinary. So, what are the essential ingredients that can transform your recipe?
Key Takeaways
- Combine ground beef, egg, onion, milk, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper to create the meatloaf mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for one hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing for better texture.
- Customize with herbs, spices, and sauces like ketchup or barbecue for enhanced flavor.
History

Meatloaf has a rich history that dates back to ancient Roman times when people mixed meats with various ingredients and baked them together.
Over the centuries, it evolved, but it was during the Great Depression that meatloaf truly gained its foothold in American cuisine. This cost-effective dish allowed families to stretch meat by incorporating fillers like breadcrumbs and oats.
By the 1940s, meatloaf became a traditional staple in households, often glazed with ketchup or barbecue sauce. Its comforting nature solidified its status as a quintessential comfort food.
Today, you'll find numerous regional variations, each reflecting unique cultural influences and ingredients. The origins of meatloaf illustrate its adaptability, making it a beloved dish across generations.
Recipe

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. It's a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a favorite among families. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a hearty meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, meatloaf is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. To make your meatloaf even more special, consider adding your favorite herbs or spices, or mixing in vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
The optional glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard not only enhances the taste but also gives the meatloaf a beautiful, caramelized finish that's sure to impress. Follow this recipe for a traditional meatloaf that's sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (for glaze)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, milk, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Bake for about one hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. In the last 15-20 minutes of baking, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, and pour it over the meatloaf to create a delicious glaze.
Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips:
To ensure your meatloaf holds its shape and doesn't crumble, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Allowing it to rest after baking is crucial for easier slicing and better texture.
If you have leftovers, meatloaf can be wonderfully repurposed into sandwiches, tacos, or a chili, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Consider freezing individual slices for quick meals later on, ensuring you always have a hearty option on hand.
Cooking Steps

To kick off the cooking steps, you'll want to preheat your oven to 350°F.
Next, mix your ingredients in a large bowl until just combined, and then shape the mixture into a loaf.
Finally, place it in your baking dish and let it bake for about an hour.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F

Before you place your meatloaf in the oven, it's essential to preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures even cooking, allowing the meatloaf to achieve that perfect juicy interior.
Take at least 10-15 minutes for the oven to reach the desired temperature before sliding in your dish. Consistent baking temperature is crucial for preventing the exterior from burning while the inside cooks thoroughly.
If you notice any uneven cooking, consider using an oven thermometer to check your oven's accuracy. This standard temperature not only cooks the meatloaf properly but also enables the glaze to caramelize beautifully, enhancing the flavors.
With the oven ready, you're one step closer to enjoying a delicious meatloaf!
Step 2. Mix Ingredients in a Bowl

Start by finely chopping the onion and sautéing it until it's soft and fragrant.
Once done, grab a large mixing bowl and combine 1 ½ pounds of ground beef, 1 cup of soaked breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, and 1 cup of milk. This mix helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture to your meat mixture.
Next, season the mixture with salt, pepper, and optional spices like Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Gently mix the ingredients by hand or with a spoon until just combined, making sure to avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Finally, transfer the combined mixture to a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet, ready for the oven.
Step 3. Shape Mixture Into Loaf

Gently shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf form, ensuring you press it lightly to maintain tenderness.
Use a lightly greased baking sheet or a loaf pan for this step. The baking sheet allows for better moisture evaporation, promoting a crisp exterior. Aim for an even thickness of about 2 to 3 inches to ensure uniform cooking.
As you shape the loaf, consider pressing some of the glaze into the top; this will add flavor and allow it to caramelize beautifully during baking.
If you're using a baking dish, lining it with parchment paper can help with cleanup and prevent sticking.
With these tips, you'll create a delicious meatloaf that's both flavorful and moist!
Step 4. Add Meatloaf to Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the meatloaf cooks evenly.
Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Once your meat mixture is shaped into a loaf, transfer it into the prepared baking dish.
If you prefer better moisture retention and a crispier exterior, shaping the meatloaf on a baking sheet is a great option for uniform cooking. Ensure the meatloaf fits comfortably within the dish, allowing it to expand during baking.
With the meatloaf now in the preheated oven, it's crucial to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
Enjoy the anticipation of your delicious creation!
Step 5. Bake for One Hour

Baking your meatloaf for one hour is essential for achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before placing your meatloaf inside.
As it bakes, ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness; the meatloaf should no longer be pink in the center.
About 15-20 minutes before it's done, glaze over the top with your favorite mixture to enhance the flavor and create a beautiful caramelization.
Once it's baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes. This step helps retain its juices, making your homemade meatloaf recipe tender and juicy.
Now you've mastered this classic meatloaf recipe!
Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your meatloaf adventure, remember that a well-prepared meatloaf can easily become a family favorite.
The key lies in your meatloaf mixture; avoid overmixing to keep it tender. After baking, let it rest for 10-15 minutes to retain moisture and ensure perfect slices.
Always check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (74°C) for safety and doneness.
You can customize your meatloaf with different seasonings and glazes, making it as versatile as you want.
If you have leftovers, don't worry—they can be transformed into delicious sandwiches, tacos, or even beef chili, maximizing flavor and reducing waste.
Enjoy your creation, and watch as it becomes a beloved dish in your home!