By This Classic Meatloaf Recipe | Comforting and Hearty balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Classic Meatloaf Recipe | Comforting and Hearty captures the essence of meals|beef & lamb while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Classic Meatloaf Recipe | Comforting and Hearty becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Meatloaf:
1 1/2 lbs (680g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 for a juicy meatloaf)
1/2 lb (225g) ground pork or veal (optional, for extra flavor and tenderness)
1 cup (80g) breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup (120ml) milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
PREPARATION STEPS
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork (if using)
Add the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, about 8×4 inches in size.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
If using a loaf pan, you may want to drain any excess fat halfway through the cooking process.
Rest and Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender.
Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite sides.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories per Serving: ~350-400 kcal (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 65 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~450 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
