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Meatloaf is the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table, filling the kitchen with savory aromas and memories of Grandma’s Meatloaf Recipes. Each slice of this Homemade recipe is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, thanks to a blend of classic ingredients and a tangy glaze. Whether you’re craving a Classic Recipe, searching for a Good Meatloaf Recipe, or just want the Best for a weeknight dinner, this loaf delivers. Inspired by favorites like Grandma Zimmern’s Meatloaf and other beloved Loaf Recipes, this dish is a true staple. Serve it alongside Buffalo Chicken Dip for a family meal that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.[Wikipedia]
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This Classic recipe is moist and flavorful, with a perfect balance of savory beef and a sweet-tangy glaze.[The Wholesome Dish]
- It’s a Homemade Meatloaf that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights or special Sunday dinners.[Simply Recipes]
- Inspired by Grandma’s Recipes, this loaf is packed with wholesome ingredients and classic flavors.
- The recipe is flexible—swap in ground turkey or add veggies for your own twist on a Good Meatloaf Recipe.
- Leftovers make the Best Meatloaf sandwiches, perfect for lunchboxes or quick meals throughout the week.
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category: | Main Dish |
Cuisine: | Healthy |
Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
Cook Time: | 60 minutes |
Total Time: | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Dietary: | Gluten-Free (with GF breadcrumbs) |
Serves: | 4 |
Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef – High in protein and iron, the classic base for Homemade Meatloaf.
- Eggs – Bind the loaf and add moisture.
- Onion and garlic – Add depth and savory flavor.
- Bread crumbs (or gluten-free alternative) – Keep the loaf tender and help it hold together.
- Milk – Adds moisture and richness.
- Ketchup – Classic tang and sweetness, both in the loaf and the glaze.[Wikipedia]
- Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami and complexity.
- Parsley – Fresh herbal note.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential seasoning.
- Brown sugar, vinegar, and extra ketchup – For the signature sweet-tangy glaze.

Classic Meatloaf
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix beef, eggs, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape into a loaf and place in a loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Spread half over the loaf.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then add remaining glaze and bake another 15 minutes.
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with sides or use leftovers in sandwiches.
Notes
How to Make the Recipe
Building a Classic Meatloaf is all about mixing, shaping, and baking to golden perfection—just like Grandma Zimmern’s Meatloaf or the Best recipe you remember from childhood.[Rachel Cooks]
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Shape the Loaf
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape by hand on a lined baking sheet. Smooth the top and edges for even cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Spread half the glaze over the top of the loaf.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze, and bake for another 15 minutes.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Let the recipe rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and easy to serve.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Slice and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Step 7: Enjoy Leftovers
Use leftover slices for sandwiches or crumble into Buffalo Chicken Dip for a fun twist on Loaf Recipes.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use 90% lean ground beef for a moist but not greasy Classic Meatloaf.[The Wholesome Dish]
- Don’t overmix—gentle handling keeps the loaf tender.
- Let the loaf rest before slicing to lock in juices and prevent crumbling.
- Customize with grated carrots, bell peppers, or even a swirl of Buffalo Chicken Dip for a modern twist.
- Double the recipe and freeze one loaf for a quick Homemade Meatloaf dinner later.
How to Serve the recipe
Meatloaf is endlessly versatile—here are ten delicious ways to enjoy it, inspired by Classic Recipe traditions and Loaf Recipes from around the world:
- With creamy mashed potatoes and green beans
- As a sandwich with crisp lettuce and tomato
- Alongside Buffalo Chicken Dip for a party platter
- With roasted root vegetables for a hearty meal
- On a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a healthy twist
- With a side of tangy coleslaw
- Crumbled into a breakfast hash with eggs
- As sliders for a fun appetizer
- With a drizzle of extra glaze and fresh herbs
- Paired with a simple salad for a light lunch

Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Cool meatloaf completely before storing to keep it moist.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Slice before storing for easy grab-and-go meals.
• Keep extra glaze on the side for reheating.
Freezing
• Freeze whole or sliced meatloaf tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• For best results, freeze without glaze and add fresh before serving.
• Label with date and flavor for easy meal planning.
Reheating
• Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
• Microwave individual slices for 30–45 seconds for a quick meal.
• Add a splash of broth or extra glaze to keep it moist.
• Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the loaf.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of ground beef and eggs?
Ground beef is rich in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, supporting muscle health and energy, while eggs add more protein and essential nutrients—making this Classic Meatloaf Recipe both hearty and nourishing.
Can I substitute a major ingredient?
Absolutely! Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter loaf, or swap breadcrumbs for oats or gluten-free alternatives to fit your needs.
How can I add flavor without extra calories?
Use fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce to boost flavor without adding fat or sugar.[Meatloaf – Wikipedia]
Can I meal prep Meatloaf?
Yes! Assemble the loaf ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh for dinner. Leftovers are perfect for meal prep lunches or quick dinners all week.[Meatloaf – Wikipedia]
Final Thoughts
Meatloaf is more than just a Classic Meatloaf Recipe—it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and the simple joy of a Good Meatloaf Recipe shared at the table. Whether you’re channeling Grandma Zimmern’s Meatloaf or putting your own spin on Loaf Recipes, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and don’t forget to save a slice for tomorrow’s lunch. Here’s to the Best Meatloaf and the memories it creates!