If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into a tender, flavorful loaf that’s juicy, perfectly seasoned, and topped with a tangy ketchup glaze. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe transforms ordinary ground beef into a timeless family favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up top view shows a rectangular metal tray with one large piece of raw chicken covered evenly with bright red sauce. A woman's hand is holding a black silicone brush, spreading the sauce on the chicken. The tray sits on a white marbled surface visible at the edges. The sauce has a smooth and shiny texture, coated all over the chicken, which has a slightly bumpy skin texture beneath the sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in building the perfect balance of texture, taste, and aroma. These basics come together effortlessly and create a classic dish that feels both nostalgic and satisfying.

2 pounds ground chuck (80/20): The ideal fat-to-lean ratio ensures juicy, flavorful meatloaf without dryness.
2 large eggs: They act as a binder, holding everything together for that perfect slice.
1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs: Adds necessary texture and soaks up moisture for a tender crumb.
1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Gives a subtle tang that brightens the flavor profile.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami, elevating the meat’s savory qualities.
1 tablespoon ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and moisture right in the meat mixture.
2 teaspoons onion powder: Infuses a gentle onion flavor without the sharpness of fresh onions.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides warm, aromatic notes that marry beautifully with the beef.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Lends just enough heat and complexity.
1 cup milk: Moistens and tenderizes the meatloaf for a luscious mouthfeel.
1/2 cup ketchup (for topping): Creates a classic glossy, tangy finish that melts into the crust while baking.

How to Make Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F and place your rack in the center. This temperature ensures your meatloaf cooks slowly and evenly, allowing the flavors to meld while creating a tender texture.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

Using either an electric mixer on low speed or your hands, combine everything except the milk until it’s just blended. Then stream in the milk slowly, mixing only until the mixture becomes slightly sticky. This careful mixing prevents a tough meatloaf and keeps it moist and tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture into an ungreased 9×13-inch pan, shaping it by hand into a freeform 10×5-inch loaf. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top — this glaze caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, adding a burst of flavor and that signature shiny crust. For quicker cooking, form two smaller loaves side by side in the pan.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place your meatloaf in the oven and bake for about an hour. If you’re making two smaller loaves, start checking the internal temperature after 40 minutes to avoid overcooking. The magic number to hit is an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it’s both safe to eat and gloriously juicy inside.

How to Serve Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe

The dish shows two thick slices of meatloaf with a shiny red sauce on top, stacked on the right side of a white plate with light brown rim. Underneath the meatloaf is a large layer of creamy mashed potatoes that look smooth and soft, covering the middle of the plate. On the left side of the plate, there are several bright green broccoli florets arranged closely together. The plate sits on a light pink textured surface, with a small white bowl with chopped green herbs in the top right corner and a green cloth partially visible at the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving to add a pop of fresh color and a mild herbal lift that balances the richness of the meatloaf beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe begs for classic comforting sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, and steamed green beans. These pairings make every bite feel like a slice of homey perfection.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, try slicing the meatloaf and serving it open-faced on toasted artisan bread with melted cheese and a drizzle of ketchup or BBQ sauce. Alternatively, thin slices make fantastic meatloaf sandwiches with crisp lettuce and tomato for the next day’s lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making this meal an excellent choice for planning ahead.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe later, consider freezing the baked whole or sliced loaf. Wrap it well in foil, then place in a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave or warm a whole loaf low and slow in the oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Add a little extra ketchup or sauce on top to keep that iconic glaze moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! While ground chuck is ideal for juiciness, a blend of ground beef and pork or even turkey can work, though you might need to adjust the moisture or cooking time accordingly to maintain tenderness.

Do I have to use an electric mixer?

Not at all! Mixing by hand is traditional and perfectly fine—just be gentle and don’t overwork the meat to keep your meatloaf tender and moist.

What can I use instead of dry breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, oats, or even crushed cornflakes work well as a binder that helps keep the loaf from crumbling.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the center; once it reads 160°F, your meatloaf is cooked through but still juicy inside.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the dry breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground nuts for a completely gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a classic done right, and this Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe is proof that simple ingredients and straightforward steps can create an unforgettable meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort dinner that brings smiles around the dinner table every time.

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Easy Classic Meatloaf Recipe