Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe

Name: Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 1 egg; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup ketchup for glaze

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I’ve always loved the comfort of a hearty meatloaf on a cozy evening. When I first made this Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe, I was reminded of the warm family dinners my grandmother used to prepare. The combination of seasoned ground beef and a hint of tangy ketchup makes each bite incredibly satisfying. I appreciate how simple and straightforward the process is, which allows the flavors to shine. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans, this meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your home too.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:58:13.567Z

When I first tried making meatloaf, I was a bit intimidated by the idea of balancing flavors and textures. However, I discovered that by using breadcrumbs and an egg, I could achieve the perfect consistency. To enhance the flavors, I always add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and some fresh parsley, which makes a world of difference. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your meatloaf from average to extraordinary.

Over the years, I've also experimented with different types of meat, but I always come back to the classic ground beef. It has the right balance of fat and flavor that keeps the meatloaf moist and delicious. Don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes after it’s out of the oven; this will help it hold together beautifully when you slice it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting, classic flavor that brings back memories
Moist and tender meatloaf with a savory glaze
Versatile dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

      

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of ground beef plays a crucial role in the final flavor and texture of your meatloaf. I recommend using a mixture with around 80% lean beef. This fat content helps keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process. If you prefer a leaner option, consider mixing in ground pork or turkey to maintain moisture, as leaner beef can dry out more quickly.

Onions add not only flavor but also moisture to your meatloaf. Finely chopping the onion ensures it distributes evenly throughout the mixture, preventing chunks that may overpower the dish. If you don't have fresh onions, you can substitute with onion powder or rehydrated dried onions, bearing in mind that the texture will be slightly different.

Perfecting the Bake

When shaping your meatloaf, take extra care to smooth the top. This step helps the meatloaf bake evenly, allowing for a consistent texture throughout. If the mixture is overly sticky, wet your hands slightly before shaping to prevent it from clinging. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as oven temperatures can vary; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.

Letting your meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking is essential. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, which helps prevent it from crumbling when you slice it. If you find the edges darkening too quickly during baking, consider covering the meatloaf loosely with foil after about 40 minutes to avoid over-browning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect meatloaf:

Meatloaf Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup ketchup for glaze

These ingredients are essential to capture the classic taste of meatloaf. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices!

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering meatloaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Smooth the top for an even bake.

Glaze the Meatloaf

Spread the ketchup evenly on top of the shaped meatloaf for a flavorful glaze.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

These steps will guide you through making a delicious and classic meatloaf. Every bite is sure to please!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or spices like paprika or garlic powder to the meat mixture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This meatloaf keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the meatloaf wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.

When reheating, consider adding a touch of water or broth to the dish to prevent it from drying out. Covering it loosely with foil while warming keeps moisture in. You can also slice individual portions and microwave them for quick reheating; just be sure to cover them to trap steam.

Serving Suggestions

Old Fashioned Meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn. For a fresher approach, serve it with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans to balance the savory flavors. I love drizzling additional ketchup or a homemade savory glaze over the top right before serving for an extra flavor boost.

For a twist, consider adding spices or herbs to the meat mixture. Adding some garlic powder, parsley, or even a hint of grated cheese can elevate the taste profile. You can also serve meatloaf sandwiches the next day, using the leftovers in hearty bread with your favorite condiments for a satisfying lunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but be sure to add some olive oil to keep it moist.

→ How can I make my meatloaf gluten-free?

Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats for a similar texture.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze meatloaf?

Absolutely! Wrap the meatloaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.