Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe

Name: Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup brown sugar

Highlighted under: Homestyle Treats

I love making this Old Fashioned Meatloaf on cozy nights when I'm craving something hearty and comforting. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a rich tangy glaze brings me back to my childhood. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it's easy to throw together, yet the flavor is truly spectacular. This recipe reminds me that sometimes the simplest meals are the most satisfying, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:55:11.612Z

When I first attempted making this meatloaf, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. To my delight, it was a hit! I learned that mixing the ingredients just enough while not overworking the meat is key to achieving the right texture. The glaze, made of ketchup and brown sugar, caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding a sweet and tangy finish that pairs perfectly with the savory meat.

This meatloaf is perfect for meal prep; it reheats beautifully and can be paired with mashed potatoes or served as a sandwich the next day. I always make extra because leftovers are a true delight. Plus, you can customize it by adding ingredients like chopped bell peppers or cheese for an extra kick!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A comforting classic that warms the soul
Perfectly balanced sweetness in the glaze
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Old Fashioned Meatloaf is the ground beef, which should ideally be 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and moisture. The fat content plays a crucial role in the texture, ensuring the meatloaf remains juicy while it cooks. If you're looking to lighten up the dish, you can substitute some of the beef with ground turkey or chicken, but be aware that this may result in a dryer texture. Adding a little extra milk can help retain moisture in this case.

Breadcrumbs serve as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together while also adding a tender crumb. For an extra layer of flavor, consider using seasoned breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. If you're gluten-free, you can easily swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour. These adjustments allow you to tailor the recipe not only to your dietary needs but also to elevate the taste experience.

Mastering the Techniques

When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, it's important to combine them just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaves that lack the light, airy texture we all love. I find that using my hands allows me to feel the right consistency better than any tool. Aim for a mix that holds together without crumbling when shaped into a loaf, and you will achieve the perfect result.

Shaping your meatloaf correctly is key to even cooking. Make sure the loaf is uniform in thickness so that it cooks evenly throughout. I recommend using a loaf pan; it’s a great way to keep the meatloaf compact. Place a piece of parchment paper on the bottom for easy removal. As you bake, monitor the internal temperature – it should be about 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked, giving you that classic meatloaf firm yet slightly springy texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Meatloaf Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar

Combine these ingredients, and you're on your way to a delicious meatloaf!

Instructions

How to Make Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Prepare the Mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined but avoid overworking the meat.

Shape and Glaze

Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. In a separate bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar for the glaze. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.

Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. In the last 10 minutes, add the remaining glaze on top and return to the oven.

Rest and Serve

Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy the flavors of this classic dish!

Pro Tips

For added moisture, consider using a mixture of pork and beef. You can also incorporate freshly chopped herbs for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're pressed for time, this meatloaf can easily be made ahead of schedule. Simply prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge while your oven preheats to ensure it cooks evenly.

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 60 seconds or until heated through. For a crispy exterior, try reheating it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on both sides, allowing the edges to get golden and slightly caramelized.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This hearty meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, which soak up the savory juices. For an extra touch of comfort, serve it with a side of homemade mac and cheese. You could also slice the meatloaf thinly to use in a sandwich, layering it with your favorite condiments for a delightful lunch option.

Feeling adventurous? Give your meatloaf an Italian twist by incorporating diced bell peppers and Italian seasoning into the mix. Topping it with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese before the final bake transforms it into a hearty variation that’s sure to impress. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to adapt this recipe to suit your tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. You may want to add additional moisture since turkey can be drier.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or oven.

→ Can I freeze meatloaf?

Absolutely! Meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What sides pair well with meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad.