The Simple Oven-Baked Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s been a staple in kitchens for generations. This hearty dish is made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings, baked to perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s warm, filling, and incredibly satisfying, offering a taste of home in every bite.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in, as it combines protein, flavor, and ease of preparation in one simple dish. Oven-baking ensures the meatloaf stays moist inside with a perfectly caramelized crust, making it a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple yet flavorful, easy to prepare, and always turns out perfectly moist. The combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and seasonings creates a savory base, while the glaze adds a slightly sweet and tangy contrast.
It’s comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying, perfect with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. I also appreciate how versatile it is—you can tweak the seasoning, add veggies, or even change the glaze to suit your taste.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This dish is a must-try because it’s a timeless classic that never fails to impress. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet hearty and flavorful enough to serve guests. Everyone loves a meatloaf with a golden, caramelized top and juicy interior, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings and Calories
- Servings: 6
- Calories: ~350–400 per serving
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 2–3 minutes.
- Add ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
- Mix gently until all ingredients are combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Shape Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish or loaf pan.
- Shape into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Step 4: Prepare Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
- Spread half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes, spread the remaining glaze over the top.
- Bake until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Rest
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and makes it easier to cut.
How to Serve
- Slice and serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans.
- Optional: Serve with extra glaze or pan juices for added flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Add finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing ensures juiciness.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked meatloaf every time.
Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella inside the meatloaf.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Italian Meatloaf: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and oregano.
- Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap strips of bacon around the loaf before baking for extra flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet or loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl for glaze
- Spoon or spatula
- Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
Conclusion
Simple Oven-Baked Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. With its savory, juicy interior, flavorful seasonings, and sweet tangy glaze, it’s a surefire hit for family dinners. This recipe is easy, versatile, and customizable, making it a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, home-cooked meals.
Simple Oven-Baked Meatloaf Recipe
Description
he Simple Oven-Baked Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s been a staple in kitchens for generations.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
For the Glaze:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat Oven : Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
-
Step 2: Prepare Meatloaf Mixture : In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Mix gently until all ingredients are combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
-
Step 3: Shape Meatloaf : Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
-
Step 4: Prepare Glaze : In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Spread half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
-
Step 5: Bake : Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes. During the last 10 minutes, spread the remaining glaze over the top. Bake until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
-
Step 6: Rest : Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and makes it easier to cut.
