This Classic Meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food, combining juicy ground beef and pork with a savory blend of spices and a tangy ketchup glaze. Every bite is hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, making it a timeless favorite for family dinners. Perfect for weeknight meals or a cozy Sunday dinner, this homestyle meatloaf pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans. Its simplicity and rich taste will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds, making it a beloved dish in your home-cooked meal rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, and breadcrumbs.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, beaten eggs, and milk.
- Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Mix all the ingredients until well combined, but avoid overmixing as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for a caramelized glaze.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 75 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
The Classic Meatloaf: A Timeless Comfort Food with a Modern Twist
Few dishes embody the essence of comfort food like a classic meatloaf. From its humble beginnings as a way to stretch ingredients during hard times, to its current status as a family-favorite staple, meatloaf has earned its place in kitchens around the world. This savory, oven-baked dish combines affordable, everyday ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal that delivers both nostalgia and nourishment in every bite.
The Origins of Meatloaf
The concept of meatloaf can be traced back to ancient times, where various cultures used minced meat mixed with fillers like grains and vegetables. However, the modern American meatloaf we know today has its roots in 19th-century Europe, particularly Germany and Scandinavia, where immigrants brought the tradition of minced meat dishes to the United States.
During the Great Depression and World War II, meatloaf became a symbol of frugality. Ground beef was inexpensive and readily available, and households could stretch their grocery budget by adding fillers like breadcrumbs, oats, or crushed crackers. Despite its practical origins, the dish evolved over the years to become a beloved comfort food with endless variations and flavor combinations.
Why This Meatloaf Recipe Stands Out
- Perfect Texture and Moisture Balance
One of the biggest challenges with meatloaf is achieving the perfect texture. Nobody wants a dry, crumbly loaf. This recipe uses a combination of ground beef and ground pork to ensure a moist, tender loaf. Ground pork adds a rich flavor and additional fat content, which keeps the meatloaf juicy even after an hour in the oven. - Flavorful and Well-Seasoned
This meatloaf is anything but bland. A blend of finely chopped onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme creates a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds singing. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. - The Perfect Glaze
The tangy ketchup glaze is the crowning glory of this recipe. Spread across the top before baking, the glaze caramelizes in the oven, creating a sweet and savory crust that contrasts beautifully with the rich, juicy interior. For those who love a little extra kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the glaze. - Customizable for Different Diets
One of the best things about this meatloaf recipe is its versatility. Want a leaner version? Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and pork. Looking to add more veggies? Grated carrots, zucchini, or even spinach can be mixed in for added nutrition and moisture. Gluten-free? Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free bread or almond flour.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While meatloaf may not be the first dish that comes to mind when thinking about health food, this recipe offers a balanced nutritional profile:
- High in Protein
The combination of ground beef and pork provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. One serving contains around 25 grams of protein, making it a hearty option for those with active lifestyles. - Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Beef and pork are excellent sources of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and immune health. The addition of garlic and onions not only enhances the flavor but also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. - Low in Carbs
With only 12-15 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this meatloaf is a great option for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.
Tips for Making the Best Meatloaf
- Don’t Overmix
One of the most common mistakes when making meatloaf is overmixing the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough loaf. Mix just until everything is combined, and then stop. - Use Fresh Breadcrumbs
Fresh breadcrumbs absorb moisture better than store-bought ones and help bind the meat together without drying it out. If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or oats make great substitutes. - Line the Pan with Parchment Paper
To make cleanup easier and ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick to the pan, line your loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper. This also makes it easier to lift the meatloaf out of the pan for slicing. - Let It Rest
After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
Serving Suggestions
Meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. For a traditional comfort food meal, serve it with:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, fluffy texture of mashed potatoes complements the hearty meatloaf perfectly.
- Steamed Green Beans or Roasted Vegetables: Add a pop of color and a healthy dose of fiber with your favorite veggies.
- Homemade Gravy: While the ketchup glaze is delicious on its own, a drizzle of rich, savory gravy can take your meatloaf to the next level.
- Crispy French Fries: For a fun twist, serve your meatloaf with a side of crispy, golden fries.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Meatloaf
Leftover meatloaf doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, it might taste even better the next day! Here are a few ideas for repurposing your leftovers:
- Meatloaf Sandwich
Slice the meatloaf thick and serve it on toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mustard or mayonnaise. - Meatloaf Sliders
Cut the meatloaf into small squares and serve on mini buns with pickles and cheese for an easy party snack. - Meatloaf Hash
Dice the leftover meatloaf and sauté it with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty breakfast or brunch. - Meatloaf-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with crumbled meatloaf mixed with rice or quinoa. Bake until the peppers are tender for a creative and nutritious meal.
Why Your Family Will Love It
This classic meatloaf is a dish that brings people together. Its comforting aroma fills the house, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. The familiar flavors and hearty texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Conclusion
Classic meatloaf isn’t just a meal it’s a tradition, a source of comfort, and a reminder of the simple joys of home-cooked food. Its rich history, versatility, and ability to bring people together make it a timeless favorite in households everywhere. With its perfectly balanced flavors, moist texture, and customizable nature, this recipe stands out as one of the best.