If you’re craving a cozy, classic dinner that tastes like home, this Amazing Homemade Meatloaf Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
This traditional meatloaf is simple to make with everyday ingredients, yet it delivers big on flavor. Whether it’s for a comforting family meal or a nostalgic Sunday dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf
- Juicy and flavorful: The milk and breadcrumbs keep the meat tender and moist.
- Sweet & tangy glaze: A layer of ketchup adds the perfect finishing touch.
- Simple ingredients: Made from pantry staples — no fancy mix-ins required.
- Family favorite: Comfort food at its finest — everyone goes back for seconds!
🧾 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus more to taste)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Milk
- Egg
- Chopped onion
- Salt and pepper
Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until everything is evenly combined — but don’t overmix, or the meatloaf can become dense.
Step 3: Shape and Glaze
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Spread ketchup evenly over the top. This glaze will caramelize beautifully as it bakes, giving you that irresistible sweet and tangy flavor.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing — this helps keep all those delicious juices inside.
Slice thick and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered corn.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair this meatloaf with:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes and gravy for the ultimate comfort combo.
- Steamed Vegetables for a lighter plate.
- Garlic Bread or buttered rolls for soaking up that tangy glaze.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture — they’ll soak up moisture beautifully.
- Avoid overmixing: Mix just until combined for a tender loaf.
- Let it rest: Resting keeps the meatloaf juicy and prevents it from falling apart.
- Customize the glaze: Mix ketchup with a little brown sugar, mustard, or BBQ sauce for extra depth.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave briefly for a quick meal.
💬 Why This Recipe Works
This homemade meatloaf recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The milk and breadcrumbs add moisture, the egg binds everything together, and the ketchup glaze brings that nostalgic flavor everyone loves.
Every slice is juicy, tender, and bursting with comfort — just like mom or grandma used to make.
🥄 In Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a classic homemade meatloaf baking in the oven. It’s hearty, flavorful, and feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend family feast, this recipe delivers every time — simple, delicious, and unforgettable. ❤️
