Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf

Name: Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup ketchup (for glaze); 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf, especially on chilly evenings. The smell of savory beef and herbs fills my kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s hard to resist. This recipe reminds me of family gatherings where we would savor every bite of this hearty dish. I find that using a blend of ground beef with a touch of seasoning makes all the difference, while the glaze on top adds a perfect balance of flavor. It's like a warm hug on a plate!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:34:15.882Z

When I first tried making meatloaf, I was excited yet a bit intimidated. After a few attempts, I realized that the key is in the mixing. I make sure not to overwork the meat, allowing it to stay tender and juicy. Using breadcrumbs and eggs helps bind everything together without making it too dense.

Another tip I learned is to let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice more flavorful. The sweet and tangy glaze on top truly elevates the dish, creating a delightful finish that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and savory flavors that comfort the soul
Moist texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep

The Importance of Ingredients

The choice of ground beef in this meatloaf is crucial for achieving that rich and savory flavor. Aim for an 80/20 blend of lean meat to fat for optimal moisture without making it greasy. This fat content provides a wonderful depth of flavor as it cooks and renders, ensuring your meatloaf remains tender. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can be used, though you may want to add a bit of olive oil or sautéed vegetables to enhance moisture and flavor.

Breadcrumbs play a key role in holding the meatloaf together while contributing to its overall texture. I prefer using fresh breadcrumbs because they absorb moisture better and produce a lighter loaf compared to dried ones. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers can be substituted, adjusting the liquid slightly to maintain the right texture.

Baking Tips for a Perfect Meatloaf

When shaping your meatloaf, using a loaf pan ensures even cooking but don't be afraid to mold it by hand if you prefer a crustier exterior. Keep the loaf slightly dome-shaped on top to prevent it from becoming flat as it cooks. Additionally, using a thermometer is an excellent way to ensure perfection—look for that 160°F (70°C) mark for safety and optimal doneness without risking dryness.

Resting the meatloaf after baking is essential; it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful slice. For even better results, loosely cover the meatloaf with foil while resting to keep it warm without steaming it further. When you cut it, you should see the juices flowing to the side instead of pooling on the cutting board—a sign that it's cooked just right!

Serving and Storing Your Meatloaf

Classic meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Traditional options like creamy mashed potatoes or vibrant steamed vegetables complement its richness perfectly. For a twist, consider serving it with a tangy coleslaw or a refreshing salad, which will provide a nice contrast to the meaty loaf. I also love adding a side of roasted Brussels sprouts, which caramelize beautifully in the oven alongside the meatloaf.

If you have leftovers, meatloaf stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish covered with foil to maintain moisture, warming it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect meatloaf:

Meatloaf Ingredients

1 ½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup ketchup (for glaze)
2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s evenly packed but not overly compact.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake the Meatloaf

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Let it Rest

Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with this comforting dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture. You can also substitute half of the ground beef with ground pork for a different taste.

Customizing Your Meatloaf

Get creative with add-ins to suit your taste! Consider stirring in finely diced bell peppers or carrots for added sweetness and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as too many ingredients can hinder the meatloaf's ability to hold its shape.

For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. If you're fond of bold flavors, try incorporating a teaspoon of smoked paprika, which adds depth and a nice smokiness. These variations make it easy to personalize the dish and keep it exciting!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest missteps in meatloaf preparation is overmixing the meat. While you want everything to be well incorporated, overworking can lead to a dense and tough texture. Mix it just until the ingredients are combined for a tender result. Additionally, remember to incorporate the eggs and milk fully, as they provide moisture and binding needed for cohesion.

Another common issue is cooking the meatloaf at too high a temperature. This can cause the outside to brown too quickly while leaving the center undercooked. Stick to the recommended 350°F (175°C) and use a thermometer to monitor doneness, ensuring a perfectly cooked, juicy loaf every time.

Making Ahead and Freezing

Preparing your meatloaf ahead of time is a great option for busy weeknights. You can assemble it and place it in the loaf pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer freezing, shape the uncooked meatloaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient meal to pull from your freezer.

When you're ready to bake from frozen, just remember to allow extra cooking time—approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at the same 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature before serving. This method makes meal prep a breeze while ensuring you always have a hearty dinner option on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. Just keep in mind it may require different cooking times.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

→ What sides pair well with meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with macaroni and cheese for extra comfort!

→ Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Absolutely! Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can add moisture and flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture.