What makes a good meatloaf?

A good meatloaf is moist, tender, and flavorful. This comes from using a good ratio of meat to binder (bread crumbs and egg), adding flavorful seasonings, and not overcooking it. Using a mix of ground beef and pork or veal also enhances flavor and texture.

What is traditionally put on meatloaf?

The most common topping for classic homestyle meatloaf is a tangy-sweet tomato-based glaze or sauce. This typically consists of ketchup, brown sugar, and sometimes mustard or Worcestershire sauce.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs in meatloaf?

Good breadcrumb substitutes include crushed crackers (like Ritz), rolled oats, cooked rice, or even almond flour for a gluten-free option. These alternatives help bind the meatloaf and retain moisture.

How do you keep meatloaf from being dry?

Preventing dryness involves using a sufficient amount of binder (breadcrumbs and egg), adding moisture-rich ingredients like finely chopped vegetables (onions, peppers), and avoiding overbaking. Also, make sure to use a meat mixture that isn't too lean; a little fat adds flavor and moisture.

What temperature should meatloaf be cooked at?

Classic homestyle meatloaf should be cooked at 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the meat to cook through evenly without drying out too quickly.

How long do you cook meatloaf?

Meatloaf typically takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to cook, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked.

Classic Homestyle Meatloaf You Can Prep Ahead for Easy Weeknight Dinners 2026

Name: Classic Homestyle Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-493499H35M54S
Total time: PT-493499H35M54S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Meatloaf:; 2 lbs ground beef (85/15 blend); 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 2/3 cup whole milk; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; For the Glaze:; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Classic Homestyle Meatloaf

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A moist and tender meatloaf with a sweet-and-tangy glaze, rooted in thrifty, comforting tradition. This easy recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals and delivers deep, savory satisfaction with simple ingredients.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 1h
Total Time: 1h 15min
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Category: dinner
Method: baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs ground beef (85/15 blend)
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
2/3 cup whole milk
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Glaze:
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak.
To the soaked breadcrumbs, add eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, salt, thyme, and pepper. Mix with a fork until combined.
Add ground beef. Using your hands, gently mix just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape into a 9×5-inch loaf. For best results, chill shaped loaf for 10 minutes.
While loaf chills, make glaze by whisking all glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
Brush half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with remaining glaze.
Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a lighter option, use ground turkey and add 1 tbsp olive oil to the mix. Gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats can be substituted. The shaped loaf can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Do not skip the resting time after baking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8
Calories: 380
Sugar: 10
Sodium: 850
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 8
Unsaturated Fat: 11
Trans Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 20
Fiber: 1
Protein: 26
Cholesterol: 125

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/classic-homestyle-meatloaf/