Amazing Meatloaf: Juicy & Tender in 45 Min

Name: Amazing Meatloaf: Juicy & Tender in 45 Min
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds 80%-90% ground beef or mix of 1 lb pork + 1 lb beef; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; ⅓ cup beef broth or milk; 2 large eggs whisked; 2 –3 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley; 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 Tablespoons ketchup; 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; For the Glaze:; ½ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce; 2 Tablespoons brown sugar

by Jannet Lisa

30 de July de 2025

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Meatloaf has always been the ultimate comfort food in my house, a dish that instantly brings a smile to my face and fills the kitchen with a warm, savory aroma. I remember my mom making this easy meatloaf recipe every Sunday, and that tangy ketchup glaze was always the best part. Learning how to make meatloaf myself felt like unlocking a family secret. The aroma of the garlic and onion mingling as it bakes, the promise of a tender, juicy bite – it’s pure nostalgia. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Classic Meatloaf Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredibly savory and moist, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
It’s a truly easy meatloaf recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.
With a prep time of only 15 minutes, dinner is on the table fast.
It’s a budget-friendly meal that uses simple, accessible ingredients.
This classic meatloaf recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
It’s hearty and satisfying, making it the ultimate comfort food meatloaf.
You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonings or vegetables.

Ingredients for the Best Meatloaf

Gathering these simple meatloaf ingredients is the first step to a fantastic meal. I find that using a mix of ground beef and pork gives the best flavor and texture, but good quality 80%-90% ground beef works wonderfully on its own. The panko breadcrumbs are my secret to a tender meatloaf, helping to bind everything together without making it too dense. Don’t skip the beef broth or milk; it adds that crucial moisture that makes this meatloaf so delightful. Whisked eggs are essential for binding, and fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Worcestershire sauce and ketchup provide that classic savory and tangy foundation, while garlic and onion powder bring aromatic depth. For the irresistible glaze, a simple mix of ketchup and brown sugar creates a sweet and tangy topping that caramelizes beautifully.

2 pounds 80%-90% ground beef or mix of 1 lb pork + 1 lb beef
½ cup panko breadcrumbs – for a tender texture
⅓ cup beef broth or milk – adds essential moisture
2 large eggs whisked – helps bind everything together
2–3 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley – for a touch of freshness
2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – for deep savory flavor
2 Tablespoons ketchup – adds a classic tang
1¼ teaspoons kosher salt – enhances all the flavors
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – for a little warmth
1 teaspoon garlic powder – aromatic depth
1 teaspoon onion powder – classic savory notes
For the Glaze:
½ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce – for that sweet and tangy topping
2 Tablespoons brown sugar – helps caramelize the glaze

How to Make Meatloaf

Learning how to make meatloaf is simpler than you think, and this step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious homemade meatloaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready for that amazing aroma to fill your kitchen!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan or a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat it with non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beef broth, whisked eggs, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. I find that mixing with my hands is the best way to ensure everything is incorporated without overworking the meat, which is key to a tender meatloaf.
Step 3: Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press gently to form a uniform shape. This helps ensure even cooking, making your homemade meatloaf look as good as it tastes.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: ½ cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce) and 2 tablespoons brown sugar. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. A little extra black pepper on top is a nice touch!
Step 5: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. The glaze should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.
Step 6: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring each slice is moist and tender.

Pro Tips for the Best Moist Meatloaf

Elevating your meatloaf game is all about a few simple tricks. I’ve learned these over the years, and they make a huge difference in achieving that perfect, tender texture and rich flavor.

Don’t overmix the meat mixture; gently combining the ingredients is key to a tender meatloaf. Overworking the meat can make it dense and tough.
Always rest your meatloaf for at least 10 minutes after baking. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is wonderfully moist.
Using a meat thermometer is your best friend! Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety and optimal texture.
Feel free to add finely grated carrots, celery, or bell pepper to the mix for extra flavor and moisture.

What’s the secret to perfect moist meatloaf?

The secret to a truly moist meatloaf lies in not overmixing the meat and ensuring it has enough binder and liquid. My go-to is soaking the breadcrumbs in broth or milk first, creating a “panade” that keeps everything incredibly tender and juicy throughout baking. For more tips on achieving the perfect texture, check out these baking secrets.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with meatloaf?

The most common mistake is overmixing, leading to a dense texture. Another pitfall is not resting the meatloaf, which results in dry slices. Lastly, always use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through to 160°F for safety and the best results. Learn more about proper cooking temperatures from the USDA.

Best Ways to Serve Homemade Meatloaf

This hearty meatloaf is the definition of comfort food meatloaf, and it’s incredibly versatile! My favorite way to serve it is with creamy mashed potatoes and some steamed green beans. The potatoes soak up any extra juices beautifully, and the beans add a nice bit of freshness. Another great pairing is with cheesy mashed potato balls for a truly indulgent meal. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonderfully to balance the richness of the meatloaf. You might also enjoy these apple salad recipes for a refreshing side.

Nutrition Facts for Meatloaf

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per slice of this delicious meatloaf. It’s a satisfying part of any meal!

Calories: 280
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Amazing Meatloaf: Juicy & Tender in 45 Min - Meatloaf - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Meatloaf

Proper storage is key to enjoying this amazing homemade meatloaf leftovers. Once your meatloaf has cooled slightly, usually about 10-15 minutes after resting, you can store it. For the best results and to maintain its savory flavor, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in airtight containers. This ensures your meatloaf stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Thinking about longer storage? This meatloaf freezes beautifully! Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the microwave is a quick option for a single slice, usually about 1-2 minutes. For a more even reheating, place slices in a baking dish with a tablespoon of broth or water, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traditional Meatloaf

What is meatloaf?

Meatloaf is a classic dish made from ground meat, usually beef, formed into a loaf shape and then baked or sometimes smoked. It’s often mixed with binders like breadcrumbs or oats, eggs, and seasonings, and frequently topped with a glaze. It’s a staple of comfort food menus for a reason! For other comfort food ideas, check out these last recipes.

Why is my meatloaf dry?

A dry meatloaf is usually a result of overmixing the meat, which tightens the protein strands and squeezes out moisture. Another common culprit is not including enough binder or liquid; the breadcrumbs and broth in this recipe are essential for a moist meatloaf. Also, be sure not to overcook it – use a meat thermometer to hit that perfect 160°F!

Can I use different types of ground meat?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can easily swap it out. A blend of ground pork and beef is fantastic, or you could try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be mindful that leaner meats might require a bit more moisture, so don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth if needed for your ground beef meatloaf. You might also like this mediterranean chicken recipe for a different flavor profile.

How do I get a nice crust on my meatloaf?

The glaze is your best friend for achieving a delicious crust! The combination of ketchup and brown sugar in this recipe caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a slightly sweet and tangy coating. Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and don’t be afraid to let it bake for the full time to get that lovely browned exterior.

Variations of Meatloaf You Can Try

While this classic ground beef meatloaf is fantastic, don’t be afraid to get creative! I love experimenting with different flavors and textures to keep things interesting. For a lighter take, try swapping half the beef for ground turkey or chicken – just ensure you add a little extra moisture like broth or a touch more ketchup to keep it tender. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or even rolled oats. You could also try a “pizza meatloaf” by adding Italian seasonings, mozzarella cheese, and a marinara topping, or a “Mexican meatloaf” with taco seasoning, corn, and black beans. The possibilities are endless for creating your own delicious variations! For more creative ideas, explore these sloppy joe bowls.