Family Favorite Meat Loaf



Family Favorite Meat Loaf

This Family Favorite Meat Loaf is the kind of comforting, dependable dinner recipe that gets passed down and requested again and again. Moist on the inside, lightly caramelized on top, and packed with classic savory flavor, this meat loaf is perfect for weeknights, Sunday dinners, or leftovers that taste even better the next day.

If you’re looking for a classic homemade meat loaf recipe that never fails, this one checks every box.

Why This Meat Loaf Is a Family Favorite

Ingredients

Meat Loaf

Classic Ketchup Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp yellow mustard (optional)

How to Make Family Favorite Meat Loaf

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together milk and breadcrumbs. Let soak for 1 minute. Add eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and seasonings. Mix gently.

Add ground beef and mix just until combined—overmixing makes meat loaf dense.

Step 3: Shape & Glaze

Transfer meat mixture to pan or shape into a loaf on the baking sheet.

Mix glaze ingredients and spread half over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, remove from oven, spread remaining glaze on top, then return to oven.

Bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Let meat loaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Pro Tips for the Best Meat Loaf

  • Use milk-soaked breadcrumbs for moisture

  • 80/20 beef gives the best balance of flavor and juiciness

  • Let it rest before slicing

  • Bake on a rack over a pan for less grease (optional)

Variations & Add-Ins

What to Serve with Meat Loaf

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container

  • Freeze: Up to 3 months (whole or sliced)

  • Reheat: Oven at 325°F or microwave with a splash of water

Final Thoughts

This Family Favorite Meat Loaf Recipe is everything comfort food should be—simple, hearty, and irresistibly good. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this classic dish delivers every time.

OTHER RECIPES


MEAT LOAF RECIPE INGREDIENTS
Meat Loaf:
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 celery rib, finely chopped
  • 1 large carrot, finely shredded
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 cup quick-cooking oats
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup 2% milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
Piquant Topping:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon prepared horseradish

MEAT LOAF RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS
 1. Preheat oven to 350*F (175*C). Prepare a large baking sheet with sides by lining it with foil. Set aside. If you have a food processor, use it to prepare the vegetables.
2. In large mixing bowl combine all the ingredients, except for topping, mixing thoroughly with your hands. (Just part of the meatloaf-experience!)
3. Place meat mixture onto baking sheet and shape into a loaf. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven; drain excess grease. Spoon topping over meatloaf. Return to oven and bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to set for 10 minutes before slicing.
4. For Piquant Topping: Mix together all ingredients in small bowl and follow directions above.

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