Easy Meatloaf

Who doesn’t love a meatloaf? This Easy Meatloaf recipe is the perfect combination of savory, hearty, and just a touch of sweet. Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone who wants a comforting meal to end the day, this recipe will become your go-to. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Think of it as the classic American comfort food you grew up eating, but with a little twist to make it even better. Bonus? It’s done in less than 1.5 hours, so it’s perfect for any night of the week.

Table of content

• About The Recipe
• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Key Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to Make the Recipe(Step-by-Step)
• Expert Tips for Success
• Variations and Customizations
• Nutritional Information
• Storage and Reheating Instructions
• Recipe Card
  • Recipe Preparation
  • Ingredients List
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • Cooking notes
  • Nutritional Information
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Comments & Reviews
• Social Sharing Options

About The Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Easy Meatloaf has been a dinner table hero for decades for good reason. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, satisfying, and downright delicious. For me, meatloaf was the ultimate treat growing up. My mom would make it on Sundays, and the house would fill with that irresistible smell of meat and spices baking together. This recipe takes that nostalgic dish and makes it approachable for today’s busy cooks. The glaze alone is worth a moment of appreciation—it’s the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, adding a burst of flavor to each slice. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or batch-prepping lunches, this recipe adapts beautifully to fit your needs. Plus, it’s made using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. At BellRecipes, we love sharing dishes like this because they bring people together—and really, isn’t that what food is all about?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make (ready in under 90 minutes).
• Uses pantry staples, so no fancy ingredients needed.
• Perfectly moist and flavorful, thanks to a secret glaze.
• Adjustable to different diets and tastes.
• An iconic dish loved by adults and kids alike!
• Great for a laid-back dinner or meal prep lunches.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Ground Beef: For a classic taste. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Breadcrumbs: Key for texture. Use panko for more crispiness, or go gluten-free with almond flour.
• Egg: It holds everything together. You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) as a vegan option.
• Milk: Adds moisture. Swap with almond or oat milk if you’re dairy-free.
• Ketchup: A must for the glaze. BBQ sauce works as an alternative for smokier vibes.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens the glaze. Can be replaced with honey or agave syrup.
• Onion & Garlic: Bring the flavor! You can use onion powder or garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.

How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step)

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or oil.
• Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine everything evenly—it’s the best way to get it all to stick!
• Step 3: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to shape it into a firm loaf.
• Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar (optional) to create your glaze. Spread half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
• Step 5: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Then, remove it, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
• Step 6: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This step is key for locking in the juices. Serve and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the meat mixture—it might get too dense.
Bake your meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with foil if you don’t have a loaf pan.
Let it rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked (160°F is ideal).
If you want an extra caramelized glaze, broil the meatloaf for 2 minutes at the end.

Variations and Customizations

Want to make it spicy? Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the mix. Prefer a smoky flavor? Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce. Looking for a protein boost? Mix in cooked lentils or quinoa alongside your ground meat. You can even turn this recipe into individual servings by using a muffin tin, creating adorable mini-meatloaves that bake up quicker and look super fun on a plate!

Nutritional Information

This Easy Meatloaf clocks in at around 325 calories per slice (based on 6 servings). Each slice is packed with about 22g of protein, 14g of fat, and 18g of carbs. It’s a balanced meal that pairs perfectly with a side of green beans or mashed potatoes. You’ll also get a good dose of iron and B vitamins. For lighter options, use ground turkey and reduce the sugar in the glaze to shave a few calories.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Store your meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag—they’ll last up to 3 months. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm it up in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

All Your Questions About This Recipe