Classic Meatloaf—Moist, Savory, and Glazed to Perfection

Classic meatloaf is the kind of comforting main dish that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, savory, and packed with flavor, featuring a juicy interior and a caramelized ketchup glaze that brings everything together. This recipe is the perfect balance of tender beef, breadcrumbs, seasoning, and that nostalgic sweet-tangy topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or tucked between two slices of bread for leftovers, this meatloaf delivers all the homestyle goodness you’re craving.

Why This Classic Meatloaf Recipe Always Hits

It’s easy, affordable, and made with pantry staples. The blend of ground beef, onions, garlic, and Worcestershire creates a flavor-packed loaf that stays moist without falling apart. The glaze adds just enough sweetness and zing to make each bite addictively good. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and it reheats like a dream.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp paprika

For the Glaze

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. In a large bowl, combine milk and breadcrumbs. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak.
3. Add ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, parsley, and paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar.
7. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
8. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
9. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
10. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for moisture and tenderness. Mix just until everything is combined—overmixing makes the loaf dense. Shape the loaf by hand instead of using a pan for better caramelization around the edges. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overbaking.

Variations

Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan for extra flavor. Swap ketchup glaze for BBQ sauce. Mix in diced bell pepper or shredded carrot for added texture. Use ground turkey or a beef-pork mix for a twist.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Classic meatloaf is the dinner table hero—filling, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. It’s everything you want from a comfort food dish, and this recipe hits every note from moist interior to sticky-sweet glaze. Whether it’s your first time making meatloaf or your hundredth, this version always delivers.

Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.