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The Best Meatloaf Recipe

This classic meatloaf recipe is a beloved family favorite! All four of my kids agree—it’s one of their top childhood meals. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or gooey mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort dinner.

Ingredients for the Perfect Meatloaf

Ground Beef: For the best balance of flavor and juiciness, use 80/20 ground beef.
Breadcrumbs: Help bind the loaf and create the perfect texture. Italian or seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor, but Panko works too.
Eggs: Essential for keeping the meatloaf together when sliced.
Onions: Pre-cooked onions lend a subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish.
Seasonings: Fresh parsley adds brightness, while Italian seasoning and a touch of salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor.

The Perfect Meatloaf Sauce

A tangy and slightly sweet topping is key to this dish! The sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky glaze as the meatloaf bakes.

Topping Ingredients:

  • Chili Sauce: A zesty alternative to ketchup with less sweetness and more tang. (Find it near ketchup in stores or make your own!)
  • Ketchup: Blended with chili sauce for a rich, classic topping.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds just the right hint of sweetness.

Tip: If you don’t have chili sauce, substitute with extra ketchup or BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.

Variations & Additions

  • Meat Options: Swap ½ pound of ground beef for lean pork or mix beef with turkey (cook turkey to 165°F).
  • Extra Seasonings: Add garlic powder (1 tsp), Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp), or cooked green bell peppers for added flavor.
  • Brown Sugar Glaze: Combine equal parts brown sugar and ketchup with 2 tsp cider vinegar for a sweet topping.
  • Brown Gravy: Skip the sauce and serve the meatloaf with rich brown gravy instead.

How to Make the Best Meatloaf

  1. Prep the Onions: Soften chopped onions in a skillet to mellow their flavor.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until just combined.
  3. Form the Loaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet for even cooking.
  4. Bake: Cook according to the size of your loaf (times below). Add the sauce halfway through baking for a glossy finish.
  5. Rest: Let the meatloaf sit for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overmix: Gently mix ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender, not dense.
  • Skip the Loaf Pan: Bake on a sheet pan for a crisp exterior. Using a loaf pan may cause steaming.
  • Moisture Matters: Soak breadcrumbs in milk to ensure a moist, flavorful loaf.
  • Rest Before Serving: Resting the meatloaf after baking helps redistribute juices and makes slicing easier.

Enjoy this hearty, nostalgic dish with your favorite sides for a meal the whole family will love!

The Best Meatloaf Recipe
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The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Recipe by snackonmeat
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

50

minutes

Juicy and Easy Meatloaf Recipe
This is hands-down the best meatloaf recipe! Simple to prepare, it delivers perfectly juicy results every time.

Equipment Needed:
Baking Sheet
Frying Pan
Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

  • Meatloaf

  • ½ medium onion, diced

  • 1 teaspoon butter

  • 2 eggs

  • ¾ cup milk

  • ¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs (or seasoned breadcrumbs)

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef

  • 1 tablespoon ketchup or chili sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley)

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • Meatloaf Sauce

  • ½ cup chili sauce (see note)

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)

Directions

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Cook Onions: Sauté the diced onion in butter over medium-low heat until softened. Set aside to cool completely.
  • Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs. Let this mixture rest for 5-10 minutes to hydrate.
  • Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: Add the ground beef, cooled onions, ketchup (or chili sauce), Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Gently mix until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  • Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into an 8″x4″ loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes.
  • Make the Sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together chili sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar (if using) in a small bowl.
  • Add the Sauce: After 40 minutes, spread the sauce over the meatloaf. Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. For extra caramelization, broil for 1-2 minutes if desired.
  • Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides for a comforting meal!