Comfort Eats

18+ Classic Meatloaf Recipes Just Like Mom Used to Make

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Classic Meatloaf Recipes

Step back in time and rediscover the heartwarming comfort of classic meatloaf – a dish that evokes memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. This isn’t just any food; it’s a symbol of love, tradition, and the simple pleasure of a satisfying meal. From the familiar aroma wafting from the oven to the first tender bite, meatloaf has a way of bringing people together. Join us as we explore over 18 variations of this beloved classic, each recipe promising a unique flavor profile that will transport you back to Mom’s kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, prepare to be inspired and create meatloaf masterpieces that will become family favorites for generations to come.

Traditional Meatloaf

This is the quintessential meatloaf, the foundation upon which all other recipes are built. It’s a celebration of simplicity, featuring a blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings. Baked to perfection and glazed with a simple ketchup mixture, this meatloaf is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic comfort food. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Classic Mom’s Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

A true tribute to Mom’s cooking, this meatloaf recipe is all about nostalgia and flavor. The blend of ground beef and perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs creates a tender and flavorful base. The real magic happens with a generous ketchup glaze, adding a sweet and tangy touch that elevates every bite. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in or a special family dinner.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine soaked breadcrumbs, ground beef, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix gently until just combined.
  5. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  6. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  7. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

This recipe adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the classic. The meatloaf is seasoned with herbs and spices, creating a rich and savory base. The glaze, a delightful combination of ketchup and brown sugar, caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding a glossy finish and a burst of flavor. It is a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup and brown sugar for the glaze.
  6. Spread the glaze over the top of the loaf.
  7. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Savory Herb Meatloaf

This meatloaf is all about the fresh, vibrant flavors of herbs. A blend of ground beef is infused with a generous mix of fresh herbs, creating a fragrant and delicious meal. The herbs add depth and complexity, making this meatloaf a delightful alternative to the traditional version. It is the perfect way to celebrate garden-fresh flavors.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, basil, eggs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Meatloaf with Ground Beef & Pork Blend

This recipe elevates the classic with a blend of ground beef and pork, resulting in a meatloaf that’s incredibly flavorful and tender. The pork adds richness and moisture, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The combination of the two meats makes this a truly exceptional meal.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Comforting Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

This recipe combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes. The meatloaf is cooked to perfection, creating a delicious base for the creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food combination, ideal for a cozy evening at home.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze
  • Mashed Potatoes (recipe follows)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with Mashed Potatoes.
  8. Mashed Potatoes Ingredients:
  9. 3 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
  10. 1/2 cup milk
  11. 1/4 cup butter
  12. Salt and pepper to taste
  13. Mashed Potatoes Instructions:
  14. Boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.

Classic Meatloaf with Onion Soup Mix

A convenient and flavorful twist on the classic, this recipe incorporates onion soup mix to enhance the meatloaf’s taste. The mix adds a depth of savory flavor with ease. The preparation is quick, but the results are delicious, making this meatloaf a winner any night of the week.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 packet onion soup mix
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Classic Italian Meatloaf with Parmesan

This recipe puts a delicious Italian spin on classic meatloaf. Incorporating parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and a touch of garlic, it offers a burst of Mediterranean flavor. The cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that compliments the meat, giving a delightful twist on the traditional recipe.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Bacon-Wrapped Classic Meatloaf

Elevate your meatloaf with this decadent recipe that wraps the savory flavors of bacon around a classic meatloaf. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture, creating an unforgettable experience. It’s the ultimate comfort food combination.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb bacon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Wrap the meatloaf with bacon strips, overlapping slightly.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C) and the bacon is crispy.
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Classic Meatloaf with Vegetables

A wholesome and flavorful meatloaf recipe, incorporating a medley of fresh vegetables. This recipe is a great way to sneak extra nutrients into a family favorite. The added vegetables make the meatloaf tender and create a symphony of flavors.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Spicy Meatloaf with Jalapeños

Add some heat to your dinner table with this spicy meatloaf. The addition of jalapeños provides a delightful kick, making this a great choice for those who love a bit of fire in their food. The flavor is balanced perfectly with the other ingredients to create a satisfying and exciting meal.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, jalapeños, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Mom’s Sweet and Tangy Meatloaf

This recipe is inspired by the classic sweet and tangy flavors Mom used to make. This version offers a balance of sweetness and tanginess that is sure to please. The unique glaze is the key to this delightful dish, making it memorable and delicious.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp mustard

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard.
  6. Spread the glaze over the top of the loaf.
  7. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Meatloaf with a Tangy BBQ Glaze

Embrace the smoky and tangy flavors of BBQ in this meatloaf recipe. The glaze is the star, combining the sweetness of barbecue sauce with the savory essence of meatloaf. It’s a fantastic twist on a familiar dish and perfect for any BBQ fan.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Glaze: 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread BBQ sauce over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Easy Classic Meatloaf with Breadcrumbs

This is the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight, delivering all the classic flavors with minimal effort. Using breadcrumbs to bind the ingredients, creating a tender and flavorful meatloaf. This is your go-to recipe for a delicious meal without a lot of fuss.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Classic Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Enhance your meatloaf experience with a rich and flavorful mushroom gravy. This recipe features a perfectly cooked meatloaf alongside a silky, savory gravy. This is comfort food at its finest, creating a warm, satisfying meal.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze
  • Mushroom Gravy (recipe follows)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with Mushroom Gravy.
  8. Mushroom Gravy Ingredients:
  9. 1 tbsp olive oil
  10. 8 oz sliced mushrooms
  11. 1/4 cup chopped onion
  12. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  13. 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  14. 2 cups beef broth
  15. Salt and pepper to taste
  16. Mushroom Gravy Instructions:
  17. Sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil. Stir in flour. Gradually whisk in broth and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Classic Meatloaf with a Sweet Chili Glaze

This recipe combines the comforting classic with a burst of sweet and spicy flavors. The glaze, made with sweet chili sauce, adds a unique twist, balancing sweet and heat. The result is an exciting take on the traditional dish.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Glaze: 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread sweet chili sauce over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Classic Meatloaf with a Tomato-Based Sauce

Embrace the rich, tangy flavor of a tomato-based sauce, which is drizzled over the top of the meatloaf. The sauce complements the savory meatloaf, creating a hearty and comforting meal. This variation adds a vibrant and fresh taste to a familiar classic.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tomato-Based Sauce (recipe follows)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
  6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with Tomato-Based Sauce.
  7. Tomato-Based Sauce Ingredients:
  8. 1 tbsp olive oil
  9. 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  10. 1/4 cup chopped onion
  11. 1 clove garlic, minced
  12. 1 tsp dried oregano
  13. Salt and pepper to taste
  14. Tomato-Based Sauce Instructions:
  15. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add tomatoes and oregano. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Healthy Classic Meatloaf with Ground Turkey

This recipe offers a healthier take on the classic by using ground turkey. The ground turkey provides a leaner alternative to beef, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal without compromising on flavor. It is perfect for a lighter yet equally delicious dinner.

Serves:

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ketchup for glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

As we conclude this exploration of classic meatloaf recipes, we hope you feel inspired to embrace the warmth and simplicity of this beloved dish. From the traditional to the innovative, each recipe offers a unique experience. With every bite, you’ll savor the memories of home-cooked meals and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Don’t wait any longer; gather your ingredients and start creating your own meatloaf masterpieces. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty weekend feast, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your face. Happy cooking!

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