Here’s a classic homemade meatloaf—juicy, flavorful, and simple to get right:
🍖 Homemade Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
Glaze:
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
Instructions
1. Preheat oven
- 375°F (190°C)
2. Mix gently
- In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients.
- Mix just until combined (overmixing = dense loaf).
3. Shape
- Form into a loaf and place in a baking dish or on a lined tray.
4. First bake
- Bake for 30–35 minutes.
5. Add glaze
- Mix glaze ingredients and spread on top.
6. Finish baking
- Return to oven for another 25–30 minutes
- Internal temp should reach 160°F (71°C)
Rest before slicing
Let it sit for 10 minutes so it holds together and stays juicy.
Tips for the best meatloaf
- Add a splash more milk if mixture feels dry
- Use a mix of beef + ground chicken or lamb for extra flavor
- Sauté onions first if you want a softer texture
- Bake on a tray (not a loaf pan) if you prefer crispy edges
Optional add-ins
- Chopped parsley
- Grated carrot (adds moisture)
- Shredded cheese in the center
If you want, I can show you variations like BBQ meatloaf, cheese-stuffed, or a low-carb version without breadcrumbs.
