Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe (Juicy, Tender & Full of Flavor!)

Few dishes say comfort food like a classic meatloaf recipe. It’s hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully nostalgic — that perfect balance of savory beef, sweet glaze, and homey goodness.

This easy meatloaf recipe is everything you love about the traditional dish — moist, flavorful, and topped with that irresistible shiny glaze. This juicy meatloaf pairs perfectly with cheesy potato casserole or cowboy mashed potato casserole. Add creamy coleslaw for a classic home-style meal. If you’re in the mood for something sweet and creamy, Coconut Cream Pie is another Southern favorite.

Recipe Card

Servings: 6 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)

• ¾ cup milk

• 2 large eggs

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for richness)

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)

For Serving (Optional):

• Mashed potatoes

• Green beans or roasted vegetables

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let it soak for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, Parmesan, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, and paprika. Mix gently until just combined — don’t overmix it or the meatloaf can become dense.

3. Shape and Bake: Shape the mixture into a loaf (about 9x5 inches) on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a loaf pan. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.

4. Make the Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar in a small bowl.

5. Add the Glaze: After 40 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf and spread half the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake another 20–25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

6. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Top with the remaining glaze and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

• Use 80/20 ground beef — the extra fat keeps it juicy and tender.

• Soaking breadcrumbs in milk gives your meatloaf a soft, moist texture.

• For a deeper flavor, try adding a tablespoon of BBQ sauce or a splash of soy sauce to the mixture.

• Don’t overmix! Combine ingredients just until everything is blended.

• Let the meatloaf rest before slicing — it helps it hold together and stay juicy.

Final Thoughts

This classic meatloaf recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a hug in every bite — simple, hearty, and full of old-fashioned flavor. It’s perfect for Sunday suppers, cozy weeknights, or anytime you crave a bit of nostalgia.

Serve it with Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans Almondine, or a side of Mexican Street Corn, and you’ve got a meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

FAQ

Q: How do I keep meatloaf from drying out? Use a mix of ground meats (beef + pork), add moisture from eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs, and avoid overmixing the meat.

Q: Why is my meatloaf crumbly? It may need more binders, like eggs or breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined for the best texture.

Q: Should I cover meatloaf while baking? Bake uncovered for a caramelized glaze, but you can cover with foil for the first half to keep it extra moist.

Q: Can I make meatloaf ahead of time? Yes — assemble and refrigerate the loaf up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze meatloaf? Absolutely — freeze raw or cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months.