Dinner

Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever Recipe

ByLana Polati October 26, 2025October 26, 2025

Introduction

This classic meatloaf recipe is a timeless comfort food favorite, combining simple ingredients for a flavorful and juicy result. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

A white oval plate with a large meatloaf sliced into five pieces, the front slice laying flat and showing a dense, moist brown inside texture. The top layer of the meatloaf is covered with a thick, shiny reddish-brown sauce with small bits of green herbs sprinkled on top. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth partly visible underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup ketchup (plus additional for glazing)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Spread additional ketchup over the top of the loaf.
Step 5: Bake for 60-75 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips & Variations

For added moisture and flavor, try mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is perfectly cooked without drying out.
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for different tastes and textures.
Try adding a layer of cheese inside the loaf before baking for a melty surprise.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. Meatloaf can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A rectangular meatloaf is sliced into six pieces, with the front two slices slightly separated from the main loaf. The meatloaf has a cooked brown texture inside with visible bits of ingredients, while the top is covered in a shiny, thick reddish-brown glaze spread evenly. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled over the glaze and around the edges of the meatloaf on a white oval plate with a subtle embossed design near the rim. The plate sits on a white marbled surface partially covered by a white and gray striped cloth at the lower left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, meatloaf can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can make serving for dinner easier.

What can I use instead of plain breadcrumbs?

You can substitute plain breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture.