Here’s a classic homemade meatloaf recipe — juicy, tender, flavorful, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s everything you want from a comforting, no-fuss dinner.
🍽️ Homemade Meatloaf Recipe
🕒 Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 60–75 min
🍽️ Serves: 6–8
🧂 Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
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2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
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1 medium onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 large eggs
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¾ cup milk
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2 tbsp ketchup or tomato paste
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2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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Optional: 1 tsp Italian seasoning or ½ tsp smoked paprika
For the glaze:
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½ cup ketchup
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp mustard or Worcestershire sauce
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat oven
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Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the meatloaf
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In a large bowl, gently combine all meatloaf ingredients. Don’t overmix — it makes the loaf tough.
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Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan, or shape it into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Add the glaze
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In a small bowl, mix the glaze ingredients.
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Spread about ⅔ of the glaze over the top of the loaf. Save the rest for later.
4. Bake
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Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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In the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze on top for a glossy finish.
5. Rest, slice & serve
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and keeps it juicy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Mashed potatoes & gravy
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Steamed green beans or roasted veggies
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Mac & cheese
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Dinner rolls
🔁 Tips & Variations
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Ground meat mix: Use 1 lb ground beef + 1 lb ground pork or veal for extra richness.
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Make ahead: Assemble the meatloaf a day ahead and bake when ready.
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Leftovers? Use slices for meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
Would you like a cheesy meatloaf, BBQ twist, or mini muffin-size meatloaf bites version next?