Dinner

Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Byanna orden October 26, 2025October 26, 2025

Introduction

Classic meatloaf is a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. Made with simple ingredients and rich flavors, it’s perfect for a satisfying family meal. This recipe offers a traditional approach with a tangy ketchup glaze for the perfect finish.

The image shows four thick slices of meatloaf stacked on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each slice has a coarse, textured interior with bits of onion visible, a brownish cooked ground meat color, and a glossy layer of rich red ketchup sauce spread evenly on top. Small green herb pieces are scattered over the ketchup for garnish, adding contrast. The slices are arranged slightly overlapping, showing both the ketchup side and the inside of the meatloaf clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (or beef/pork blend)
1 cup diced onion (chopped small)
¾ cup bread crumbs (or panko crumbs)
⅓ cup milk (broth or water)
2 eggs
1 tsp tomato paste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
¾ cup ketchup
1 Tbsp white vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into a loaf with your hands or pack it into a greased loaf pan, then invert it onto the prepared baking sheet. Remove the loaf pan to reveal a perfectly shaped loaf.
Step 4: Bake the meatloaf uncovered without sauce for 40 minutes. Meanwhile, mix the ketchup and white vinegar together in a small bowl.
Step 5: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top and sides. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until fully cooked inside.
Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, substitute half the milk with broth or add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture.
Try mixing in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Use a combination of ground beef and pork for a richer taste and juicier texture.
Swap the ketchup glaze with barbecue sauce or a mixture of Dijon mustard and honey for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the meatloaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.