Go Back
Easy Meatloaf
Sana Yousaf

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A classic, juicy meatloaf packed with savory flavors, perfect for a comforting family dinner. This simple recipe uses pantry staples and comes together in just over an hour.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a twist
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup ketchup for glaze
Optional Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp mustard

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until combined.
  3. Add aromatics: Stir in onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.
  4. Incorporate breadcrumbs: Add breadcrumbs and mix until evenly distributed.
  5. Add meat: Gently mix in ground beef, avoiding overmixing.
  6. Shape loaf: Form mixture into a loaf on the baking sheet or press into a loaf pan.
  7. Apply glaze: Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half over meatloaf.
  8. Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes, spreading remaining glaze on top during the last 10 minutes. Check internal temperature (160°F for beef).
  9. Rest and serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to keep moist.
  • Freezing: Wrap unbaked meatloaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
  • Substitutions: Use oats, crushed pork rinds, or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for gluten-free or low-carb options.
  • Make It Spicy: Add cayenne or jalapeños for a kick.
  • Nutrition (per serving): 340 kcal, 24g protein, 18g carbs, 20g fat, 7g saturated fat, 95mg cholesterol, 720mg sodium, 1g fiber, 8g sugar.

DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY RECIPE?

If you have, then share it with us by sending a photo. We’re excited to see what you’ve made:-)