Classic Homemade Meatloaf

Here’s a classic Homemade Meatloaf recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to make—just like Grandma’s, but with a few modern tweaks! Perfect for a comforting family dinner with leftovers for sandwiches the next day.

Classic Homemade Meatloaf

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor, or mix with ground pork)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• ½ cup milk (or beef broth)

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended!):

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for a free-form loaf.

2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire, mustard, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Use your hands to mix gently—don’t overwork or the meatloaf will be dense.

3. Shape & Bake:

   • Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan or shape into a loaf on the baking sheet.

   • Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.

4. Add Glaze & Finish Baking:

   • In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire for the glaze.

   • After 40 minutes, spread the glaze over the meatloaf and bake another 20-25 minutes (or until internal temp reaches 160°F).

5. Rest & Serve:

   • Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy!

   • Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf:

✅ For extra moisture: Add ¼ cup grated carrot or zucchini.
✅ For a smoky twist: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup in the glaze.
✅ Make it gluten-free: Swap breadcrumbs for rolled oats or almond flour.
✅ Leftovers? Makes amazing meatloaf sandwiches!

This old-school comfort food never goes out of style. Let me know if you want a turkey or veggie version! 😊🍽️