How to Make the Best Meatloaf Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a classic meatloaf dinner, isn’t there? It’s one of those meals that just feels like home. Today, I’m excited to share with you my go-to meatloaf recipe that’s perfect for quick family dinners. It’s easy, flavorful, and always a hit with everyone! Plus, it pairs beautifully with some of my favorite easy pasta recipes for a well-rounded meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for weeknight dinner ideas
• Ready in about 45 minutes
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• Great for meal prep
• Customizable to your taste

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious meatloaf recipe:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet of meatloaf seasonings
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green pepper
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup ketchup

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through how to make this easy meatloaf recipe step by step:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prep Veggies: Finely chop the green pepper and onion. You want them small so they mix well into the meatloaf.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, meatloaf seasonings, egg, Italian breadcrumbs, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape it into a loaf form, about 10 inches long and 4-5 inches wide.
5. Add Ketchup Glaze: Brush the top of the meatloaf with the ketchup for that classic glazed look and flavor.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let Rest: Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overmix the meat mixture—it can make the meatloaf dense.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain juices.
• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs.

How to Serve

Meatloaf is super versatile! Here are a few ideas for serving:

• Slice it thick and serve with mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Pair it with a side salad for a lighter option.
• Try it with some creamy garlic pasta for a comforting meal.
• Use leftovers for sandwiches the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Meatloaf is a great option for meal prep:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
• Storage: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Looking for more easy dinner ideas? Check out my recipes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, Spaghetti Casserole, and Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes for more inspiration!

Meatloaf

A classic, hearty meatloaf made with ground beef, seasonings, and topped with ketchup for a tangy glaze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course main dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 3200 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet meatloaf seasonings
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup green pepper, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup ketchup for glazing

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Mix all ingredients except ketchup in a large bowl until just combined.
• Transfer mixture to a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
• Bake for 45 minutes, then brush top with ketchup and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Keyword ground beef