Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe That Tastes Like Grandma’s

Comfort food reaches new heights with this classic meatloaf recipe that brings nostalgic flavors to your dinner table.

Every home cook searches for that perfect blend of savory ingredients and tender texture.

Ground beef mingles with breadcrumbs, creating a hearty dish that promises warmth and satisfaction.

Simple seasonings unlock deep, rich flavors that remind you of childhood meals.

Onions and herbs weave their magic through each tender slice, delivering a meal that feels like a culinary hug.

The secret lies in balanced ingredients and careful preparation.

Gather around the table and savor this timeless favorite that transforms an ordinary evening into a memorable dining experience.

Ingredients To Make This Classic Meatloaf

• Ground Beef: A classic protein that forms the hearty foundation of the meatloaf.

• Eggs: Help bind the meatloaf together and provide structure.
• Quick Oats, Milk: Add moisture and help keep the meatloaf tender and soft.

• Ketchup, Worcestershire Sauce: Provide depth and tangy richness to the meatloaf.
• Minced Onion: Adds aromatic flavor and subtle sweetness.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.

• Ketchup, Brown Sugar, Apple Cider Vinegar: Create a sticky, sweet, and flavorful coating that caramelizes during baking.

Easy Instructions For A Traditional Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare Cooking Station

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Set up a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

Place a wire rack on top and cover with another foil layer, creating small drainage holes for perfect cooking.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Glaze

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Apple cider vinegar

Mix until smooth and set aside for later use.

Step 3: Blend Meatloaf Mixture

• Ground beef
• Eggs
• Quick oats
• Milk
• Ketchup
• Minced onion
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt
• Pepper

Blend carefully to avoid dense texture.

Step 4: Shape and Initial Glazing

Form meat mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf on prepared wire rack.

Spread half the glaze evenly across top and sides to lock in moisture and enhance flavor.

Step 5: Bake and Finish Glazing

Bake for 30 minutes.

Remove and coat with remaining glaze.

Return to oven for additional 35-45 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Watch for beautiful caramelization.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Allow meatloaf to rest for 15 minutes.

This crucial step ensures juicy, tender slices when serving.

Cut and enjoy your classic comfort meal.

Pro-Level Tips For Classic Meatloaf Results

• Use clean hands and mix ingredients gently to prevent a dense, tough meatloaf texture. Overmixing breaks down proteins and can create a less appealing consistency.
• Apply the glaze in two stages for maximum flavor and moisture. The first layer seals in juices, while the second creates a beautiful caramelized exterior.
• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 160°F for safe consumption. This guarantees perfectly cooked meat without drying out the dish.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest for 15 minutes after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute juices, ensuring each slice remains tender and succulent.
• Line your baking sheet with foil and use a wire rack to catch drippings. This method makes cleaning up a breeze and helps the meatloaf cook more evenly.

Keeping Your Classic Meatloaf Ready To Reheat

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Place slices in a single layer to prevent sticking, and keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place meatloaf slices in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking.

Sides That Go Great With Traditional Meatloaf

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Complement the rich, savory meatloaf with a bold cabernet sauvignon or zinfandel that matches its hearty flavor profile.
• Create Creamy Potato Sides: Whip up garlic mashed potatoes or cheesy scalloped potatoes to absorb the delicious meat juices and provide a smooth textural contrast.
• Brighten with Fresh Salad: Toss a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the meatloaf's richness and add a light, refreshing element to the meal.
• Match with Roasted Vegetables: Prepare roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots to echo the caramelized notes of the meatloaf's sweet and tangy glaze.

Creative Twists On A Time-Tested Meatloaf Dish

• Gluten-Free Meatloaf: Replace quick oats with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Keto Version: Swap oats and ketchup with almond flour and sugar-free tomato sauce, using a low-carb sweetener instead of brown sugar to keep the dish keto-friendly.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and quinoa to create a protein-packed meatless version that maintains similar texture and flavor.
• Turkey Lean Option: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter, lower-fat meatloaf that still delivers rich, satisfying taste while reducing overall calorie content.

FAQs

• What makes the meat mixture stick together?

The eggs and quick oats act as binding agents, helping the ground beef hold its shape and preventing the meatloaf from falling apart during cooking.

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground pork, or a mix of meats. Just ensure the meat has enough fat content to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

• Why use a wire rack when baking meatloaf?

The wire rack allows excess fat to drip away from the meatloaf, preventing it from sitting in its own grease and helping to create a more even, crisp exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

• How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This ensures the meatloaf is safe to eat and cooked thoroughly without becoming dry.

Why This Classic Meatloaf Stays A Favorite

• This meatloaf recipe is a breeze to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal kitchen skills. Home cooks can easily whip up a delicious meal without complicated techniques or specialized equipment.
• The sweet and tangy glaze transforms an ordinary meatloaf into a mouthwatering dish that pleases everyone at the table. Combining ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar creates a robust flavor profile that elevates the classic recipe.
• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this meatloaf adapts to various dining occasions. The recipe offers a hearty, satisfying option that works well for both weeknight meals and special gatherings, making it a go-to choice for busy households.
• Carefully crafted mixing techniques and a resting period ensure a moist, tender meatloaf every time. The wire rack method and strategic glazing help lock in flavor and prevent the meat from becoming dry or tough.

Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe

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4.9 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting meatloaf masterpiece delivers home-style flavors straight from grandma’s kitchen. Savory beef blend with perfect seasonings promises a hearty meal that brings family together around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Protein:

• 2 pounds (900 g) lean ground beef
• 2 eggs, whisked

Binding and Moisture Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 1/3 cup milk

Flavoring and Seasoning:

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup onion, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking surface Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, positioning a wire rack on top and covering it with perforated foil to ensure proper drainage.
2. Create a tangy glaze Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Set the vibrant mixture aside for later application.
3. Blend meatloaf components In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, eggs, quick oats, milk, ketchup, diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands to mix ingredients thoroughly but avoid overworking the meat to maintain a tender texture.
4. Form and initial glazing Shape the meat mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf on the prepared rack. Carefully spread half of the prepared glaze over the entire surface, ensuring even coverage to enhance moisture and flavor.
5. First baking phase Roast the meatloaf for 30 minutes, allowing the initial glaze to caramelize and infuse the meat with rich flavors.
6. Final glazing and cooking Apply the remaining glaze completely over the meatloaf. Continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, creating a beautifully caramelized exterior.
7. Resting and serving Allow the meatloaf to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This crucial step enables juice redistribution, guaranteeing a moist and tender final dish.

Notes

• Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of this classic comfort food.
• Swap quick oats with gluten-free oats or breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten-sensitive diets.
• Mix herbs like fresh parsley or thyme into the meat mixture to elevate the traditional meatloaf taste and add a fresh, aromatic touch.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg