If you’re craving a classic comfort food that brings warmth and hearty satisfaction to the table, look no further than this Easy Meatloaf Recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that combines a juicy, savory interior with a sweet and tangy glaze, all made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease, proving that homemade meatloaf can be both delicious and effortless to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect meatloaf. From the texture-enhancing panko breadcrumbs to the fresh parsley adding vibrant color and flavor, these straightforward components come together to create a dish that’s anything but basic.
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs: Light and airy, panko keeps the meatloaf tender and prevents it from becoming dense.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Moisturizes the breadcrumbs and helps bind the ingredients.
- 2 pounds ground beef: The hearty backbone of the dish; use a mix with some fat for juiciness.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds savory depth and a little kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and an oniony aroma without adding moisture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that enhances the meatloaf’s savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
- Pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle heat and sharpness.
- 1/4 cup (packed) fresh parsley (chopped): Freshness and a pop of green color brighten every bite.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (for the meat mixture): Adds a hint of sweetness within the loaf.
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for the glaze): The base of the glossy, tangy topping.
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce: Adds smoky richness to the glaze; pick your favorite brand or homemade version.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the glaze with warm, caramel-like sweetness.
How to Make Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Rack
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, positioning the rack in the middle for even heat distribution. This simple step sets the stage for a perfectly cooked meatloaf with a lovely browned crust.
Step 2: Combine the Starter Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the panko breadcrumbs and whole milk, letting it sit for a few minutes. This creates a moist base that ensures your meatloaf doesn’t end up dry—a key to that tender texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients by Hand
Add the ground beef, eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and 2 tablespoons of ketchup into the bowl with soaked breadcrumbs. Gently mix everything with your hands, taking care not to overwork the mixture, which can make the loaf tough. This hands-on step really lets you connect with the dish!
Step 4: Shape and Place the Loaf
Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some edges hanging over for easy removal later. Press the meat mixture evenly into the pan and form a gentle loaf shape on top. No need for perfection here—rustic is charming and practical.
Step 5: Bake the First Round
Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch drips, then bake for 40 minutes. This initial baking firms up the meatloaf and prepares it for the glaze.
Step 6: Prepare and Apply the Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup ketchup, BBQ sauce, and brown sugar. Once the first 40 minutes are up, take the loaf out and spoon this glossy glaze all over the top, coating it evenly. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute and will ensure each slice stays moist and holds its shape. Lift the loaf out of the pan carefully by the parchment edges and slice gently. This moment is always worth the wait!
How to Serve Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or some chopped chives on top adds a delightful burst of color and freshness to the rich meatloaf slices. A dollop of extra ketchup or a drizzle of BBQ sauce on the side invites your guests to customize each mouthful.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes soaked in butter and gravy or roasted vegetables complement this meatloaf beautifully. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or steamed green beans brings balance and crunch to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Easy Meatloaf Recipe into sliders by cutting smaller mini-loaves and serving on soft buns with pickles and mustard. Or create meatloaf “bowls” by combining crumbled meatloaf with cheesy mashed potatoes and a drizzle of gravy. The versatility here is endless, and leftovers shine in sandwiches too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping it chilled tight preserves its moisture and flavor, making reheated slices taste just as satisfying as when freshly cooked.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you want a quick meal, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For juicy, tender reheated meatloaf, slice it first and warm the pieces in a covered dish in the microwave or oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water to the dish before reheating can keep it moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, but because they are leaner than beef, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra egg to keep the meatloaf moist.
Why is it important not to overmix the meatloaf ingredients?
Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf since it breaks down the meat proteins too much. Gentle mixing ensures a tender, juicy result.
What’s the best way to test if my meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer and look for an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit for fully cooked beef meatloaf. The recipe suggests glazing and removing at 155 degrees as it will finish cooking while resting.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain that tender texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
You can double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two loaf pans. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as larger loaves may need extra time to cook through.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Meatloaf Recipe is the perfect way to bring a comforting, nostalgic meal to your dinner table without any fuss. With its balanced flavors, simple steps, and forgiving nature, it’s destined to become one of your trusted weeknight go-tos. Go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the happy smiles that come with every tender, flavorful slice.
Print
Easy Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with flavorful seasonings and a tangy glaze, baked to juicy perfection. Using panko breadcrumbs soaked in milk ensures a tender texture, while a simple ketchup and BBQ sauce glaze adds a delicious sweet and smoky finish. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it yields 8 hearty servings and requires minimal prep for maximum taste.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
Glaze
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the middle to ensure even baking.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk, stirring well and letting it soak for a few minutes. Add ground beef, eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and 2 tablespoons ketchup. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the loaf tender.
- Shape Meatloaf: Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan, pressing gently to shape into a loaf. Avoid excessive handling to maintain texture.
- Initial Bake: Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drippings and bake for 40 minutes at 375°F.
- Prepare Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, combine 1/4 cup ketchup, BBQ sauce, and brown sugar in a bowl, mixing until smooth.
- Apply Glaze and Continue Baking: Remove meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the glaze on top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to let it finish cooking and to retain juices. Lift the meatloaf out using the parchment overhang, transfer to a plate, and slice gently before serving.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs soaked in milk helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Do not over-mix the meat mixture to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking ensures juiciness and easier slicing.
- Using a loaf pan lined with parchment paper makes removal and cleanup simple.
- The internal temperature should reach 160°F for safety, but removing at 155°F and resting will bring it up to the safe temperature.
- Ground beef with 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best for flavor and moisture.
