Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe

 A Tender, Savory, and Comforting Classic Meatloaf with a Sweet Tomato Glaze!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Recipe Category: Main Dish
Recipe Cuisine: American
Aggregate Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5 from 345 reviews)

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This Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe is the epitome of comfort food. Made with a blend of ground beef and pork, combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, and savory seasonings, this meatloaf is tender, juicy, and topped with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, this classic dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), egg, garlic powder, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Form the Meatloaf
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. Pat down gently to ensure it holds its shape.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using). Pour half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Bake
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is fully cooked through.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining glaze on the side for extra flavor.

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Pro Tips

• Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
• Keep it Moist: If you want a moist meatloaf, add grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini to the mixture.
• Glaze Variation: Experiment with different glazes by adding hot sauce, barbecue sauce, or balsamic vinegar for unique flavors.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 20g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fiber: 1g

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FAQs

Can I use all beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use just ground beef, but mixing beef with pork helps the meatloaf stay tender and juicy.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatloaf, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the glaze right before cooking.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed.

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Keywords

best classic meatloaf, meatloaf recipe, classic meatloaf with glaze, homemade meatloaf, easy meatloaf recipe

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Google Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This is the best meatloaf I've ever made! It's so juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of sweetness from the glaze. Definitely a family favorite!" – Jessica P.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I tried this recipe last night and it was a hit! The texture is perfect, and the glaze gives it an extra kick. I’ll definitely be making this again." – Liam W.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This meatloaf recipe is so simple but packed with flavor. My kids loved it, and my husband went back for seconds. It's a keeper!" – Samantha B.

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