Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf

Name: Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon dried parsley; 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Highlighted under: Warm Family Favorites

I absolutely adore creating the perfect beef meatloaf; it’s a dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia for me. This classic comfort food is not just easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a touch of sweetness from the glaze makes every bite a delight. It’s the kind of meal that brings the family together, filling the kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of comfort. In about an hour, I can transport myself back to childhood memories of cozy dinners with loved ones.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:55:14.524Z

As I crafted this meatloaf, I remembered my grandmother's recipe, and it truly felt like a labor of love. I recommend using a combination of ground beef and pork to create an exceptional depth of flavor. It’s all about balance; the meat needs to be juicy but not greasy, and the breadcrumbs help absorb the juices.

Cooking it with a flavorful ketchup glaze not only enhances its sweetness but also adds a lovely caramelization that I can't resist. Serve it with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans, and you’ve got a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavors that warm the heart
Juicy and tender texture everyone will enjoy
Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners

Key Techniques for a Perfect Meatloaf

Achieving the ideal meatloaf texture relies heavily on the right mixing technique. Avoid overmixing the meat; you want to combine the ingredients just enough to bind them together. This will help maintain a juicy and tender loaf rather than a dense one. I suggest using your hands for this step, as it allows for better control over the texture. Aim for a uniform mixture without large chunks of meat or dry ingredients.

Another important technique is shaping the loaf correctly in the pan. Make sure to gently form the loaf so it fits snugly in the pan but isn’t packed too tightly, which can lead to a dry texture. A good rule of thumb is to smooth the top with a spatula so that it cooks evenly and develops a beautiful crust.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of ground beef and ground pork in this recipe serves a crucial role in flavor and moisture. Ground beef provides a robust base, while the pork adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall juiciness of the meatloaf. If you prefer a leaner version, you can substitute the pork with lean turkey or omit it entirely, but be aware that this might affect the moisture levels, so add an extra egg or a tablespoon of olive oil as a compensatory measure.

Using fresh herbs, such as parsley, adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the meat. If fresh parsley is unavailable, dried parsley can be used, but I recommend reducing the amount to about a teaspoon since it has a more concentrated flavor. Additionally, consider adding other herbs like thyme or oregano for variation.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once the meatloaf has rested, it can be sliced and served with a variety of sides. Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a tangy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. For a twist, try serving it with a side of mac and cheese or roasted vegetables to bring a modern flair to this traditional dish.

If you have leftovers, meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container; it will last up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This makes for a quick meal solution on busy nights, allowing you to enjoy the comforting taste of this classic dish.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 tablespoon brown sugar

For the Glaze

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing it.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined.

Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

Prepare Glaze

In a small bowl, combine ketchup and brown sugar. Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To add a twist, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or shredded carrots into the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your meatloaf turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking or using lean meat without a fat component. To prevent this, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—aim for 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption without sacrificing juiciness. Additionally, consider adding more moisture at the mix stage, such as using more milk or including finely grated vegetables to enhance moisture.

On the other hand, if your meatloaf is too greasy, ensure you are using a balanced fat ratio with your ground meats. Sometimes, using too much fatty ground beef can lead to greasiness. Using 80/20 ground beef is ideal, but if you find it excessively greasy, you can use 90/10 beef instead.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing meatloaf in advance can significantly reduce your cooking time on busy days. You can mix all the ingredients the night before and store the meat mixture in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you're ready to cook, simply shape it into a loaf and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Another option is to fully bake the meatloaf ahead of time, let it cool completely, and then refrigerate or freeze it in portions. This way, you have a delicious homemade meal ready to go; just reheat it in the oven without the glaze for a comfortable meal in no time!

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your meatloaf with various flavor additions. Try incorporating finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you enjoy cheesy flavors, mix in shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese for a delightful surprise in every bite.

For a sweet twist, consider experimenting with different glazes. Adding a bit of bourbon to your glaze or using barbecue sauce can elevate your meatloaf experience. Smoked paprika in the glaze also adds depth and complexity, making it an exciting change from the usual ketchup and brown sugar combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef, though it may result in a drier meatloaf.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mix in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.