15 Meatloaf Recipes That Are Comfort Food Classics

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a delicious meatloaf baking in the oven, filling the house with mouth-watering smells that transport you back to cozy childhood memories.

This classic dish is a true crowd-pleaser, beloved by families for generations. Whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true traditional recipe or want to put a modern twist on this timeless favorite, we’ve got you covered with our collection of the best meatloaf recipes.

From the classic meatloaf with a sweet and tangy glaze to inventive variations like Mexican meatloaf or veggie-packed loaves, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy every taste bud. Meatloaf is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile – perfect for meal prep, leftovers, and even sandwiches the next day.

1. Classic Homemade Meatloaf

This is the quintessential meatloaf recipe, packed with savory flavors and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Ground beef is mixed with breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and seasonings for a moist and flavorful loaf. The classic ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup dried bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
• ⅓ cup ketchup

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, onion, milk, and bread crumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a lightly greased 5×9 inch loaf pan, or form into a loaf and place in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup. Mix well and pour over the meatloaf.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.

Serve with: Mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.

Drink with: A glass of red wine, like a Merlot or a Cabernet Sauvignon.

2. Glazed Meatloaf

Glazed meatloaf takes the classic recipe up a notch with a variety of glazes to choose from. Experiment with sweet and savory combinations like apricot preserves and Dijon mustard, or a classic brown sugar and ketchup glaze.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, onion, milk, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and form into a loaf shape. Place in a greased baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread this mixture over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Serve with: Roasted potatoes and a side salad.

Drink with: A robust red wine like Zinfandel or a refreshing iced tea.

3. Tantalizingly Tangy Meatloaf

This Tantalizingly Tangy Meatloaf is a zesty take on the classic, combining savory ground beef with a tangy tomato-based glaze. The secret lies in the addition of tangy ingredients that give this meatloaf its unique and irresistible flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will make your taste buds dance with delight!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, onion, milk, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and garlic powder. Pour over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is tangy and caramelized.

Serve with: Mashed sweet potatoes and sautéed spinach.

Drink with: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a cold lemonade.

4. Mini Meatloaves

Mini meatloaves are adorable individual portions that are perfect for parties, appetizers, or a quick weeknight meal. They cook faster than a traditional meatloaf and offer the same delicious flavors in a cute and convenient size.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture evenly into a greased muffin tin.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon over each mini meatloaf.
5. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through.

Serve with: Mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.

Drink with: A fruity red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing iced tea.

5. Brown Sugar Meatloaf

The brown sugar glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a mouthwatering crust that pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf. This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite with its balanced flavors and comforting appeal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, milk, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Serve with: Roasted potatoes and green beans.

Drink with: A glass of Merlot or a cold root beer.

6. Rempel Family Meatloaf

The Rempel Family Meatloaf is a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. It’s a classic meatloaf with a few secret ingredients that make it uniquely delicious. It’s the perfect dish for family gatherings or Sunday dinners, providing that comforting homemade taste everyone loves.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, milk, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Serve with: Mashed potatoes and corn on the cob.

Drink with: A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a cold lemonade.

7. Turkey and Quinoa Meatloaf

A lighter and healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf, this recipe uses ground turkey and quinoa for a leaner protein option. It’s packed with nutrients and still delivers delicious savory flavors.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked quinoa, egg, onion, breadcrumbs, and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Serve with: Steamed broccoli and sweet potato mash.

Drink with: A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon.

8. Italian Style Turkey Meatloaf

This flavorful twist on turkey meatloaf incorporates Italian seasonings like oregano, basil, and garlic for a taste of the Mediterranean. It’s perfect served with pasta or a side of marinara sauce.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. Spread half of the marinara sauce over the meatloaf. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake for 50 minutes. Remove from oven, spread the remaining marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and basil.
5. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve with: Garlic bread and a mixed green salad.

Drink with: A glass of Chianti or a sparkling water with lime.

9. Classic Spicy Meatloaf

This version uses a blend of spices and a hint of hot sauce to create a deliciously spicy meatloaf that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ cup hot sauce
• ½ cup ketchup

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is caramelized.

Serve with: Spicy roasted potatoes and a side of coleslaw.

Drink with: A cold beer like a lager or a refreshing iced tea.

10. Whole30 Classic Meatloaf

This Whole30 compliant meatloaf uses compliant ingredients like almond flour, coconut milk, and arrowroot powder to create a delicious and satisfying dish that adheres to Whole30 guidelines.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup Whole30 compliant ketchup

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, almond flour, applesauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. Spread Whole30 compliant ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Serve with: Mashed cauliflower and roasted Brussels sprouts.

Drink with: Sparkling water with lemon or a herbal tea.

11. Jalapeno-cheddar Stuffed Enchilada Turkey Meatloaf

This adventurous meatloaf features a savory jalapeno and cheddar cheese filling, wrapped in a flavorful enchilada sauce. It’s a unique and delicious twist on classic meatloaf.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 jalapeno, chopped
• ½ cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Press half of the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeno. Top with remaining meat mixture and press down to seal.
4. Spread enchilada sauce over the top.
5. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Serve with: Spanish rice and black beans.

Drink with: A cold Mexican beer like Corona or a refreshing agua fresca.

12. Better-for-you Barbecue Gluten-free Meatloaf

This healthier meatloaf uses gluten-free breadcrumbs and is packed with barbecue flavors. It’s a delicious and satisfying option that’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ cup gluten-free barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, gluten-free breadcrumbs, milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together gluten-free barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar. Spread over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Serve with: Baked sweet potato fries and coleslaw.

Drink with: A cold iced tea or a gluten-free beer.

13. Cheesy Chicken Quinoa Enchilada Meatloaf Muffins

These individual meatloaf muffins are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic dish. They combine ground chicken, quinoa, and enchilada spices, with a cheesy topping for a satisfying and portable meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeno, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cooked quinoa, egg, onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture evenly into a greased muffin tin.
4. Spoon enchilada sauce over each mini meatloaf and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, until the meatloaves are cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and jalapeno before serving.

Serve with: Mexican street corn and a side of guacamole.

Drink with: A cold margarita or a refreshing lime soda.

14. Healthier Meatloaf With Tomato Glaze

This lightened-up meatloaf uses lean ground beef and a simple tomato glaze for a flavorful and healthier option. It’s perfect for those watching their calorie intake but still craving a comforting meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef or turkey
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup oats
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, egg, onion, oats, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together tomato sauce and apple cider vinegar. Spread over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Serve with: Steamed green beans and roasted sweet potatoes.

Drink with: A glass of sparkling water with lime or a light red wine like Pinot Noir.

15. Tangy Gluten-free Meatloaf With Balsamic Glaze

This gluten-free meatloaf is bursting with tangy flavors thanks to a balsamic glaze. It’s a delicious and satisfying option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, gluten-free breadcrumbs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place in a greased loaf pan.
3. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
4. Pour half of the balsamic glaze over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 1 hour, until the meatloaf is cooked through. Drizzle remaining glaze over the meatloaf before serving.

Serve with: Roasted Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes.

Drink with: A glass of red wine like Malbec or a sparkling water with berries.

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