Are you looking for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further than the humble meatloaf. This classic comfort food has been a staple in many households for decades, and it’s easy to see why. Made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a variety of seasonings and toppings, meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any taste or occasion.
From traditional homestyle recipes to more adventurous twists, there are countless ways to make a delicious meatloaf. In this article, we’ll explore 20 classic meatloaf recipes that are perfect for dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of meatloaf, sharing our favorite recipes and tips for making the perfect loaf. From cheesy bacon-wrapped loaves to Italian-inspired creations with mozzarella and marinara sauce, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
Traditional Homestyle Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze
This traditional meatloaf recipe combines the comforting flavors of ground beef, pork, and a hint of onion, topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. While the meatloaf is baking, mix ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush with ketchup glaze.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
A classic comfort food gets a decadent twist with the addition of gooey cheese and crispy bacon. This hearty meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Top with crumbled bacon and shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Meatloaf with Sweet Brown Sugar Sauce
This classic comfort food gets a sweet twist with the addition of brown sugar sauce, perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful meatloaf smothered in a rich, caramel-like glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, mix BBQ sauce and brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, brush with the brown sugar-BBQ sauce mixture.
7. Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes
Italian-Inspired Meatloaf with Mozzarella and Marinara
Italian-Inspired Meatloaf with Mozzarella and Marinara: A twist on classic meatloaf, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a hearty loaf. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella slices.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta
Elevate your meatloaf game with the addition of creamy feta cheese and nutritious spinach. This turkey-based recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, spinach, feta cheese, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatloaf and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mushroom and Swiss Stuffed Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this savory twist featuring sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or spoon.
3. Sauté mushrooms in olive oil until tender. Add Swiss cheese; stir until melted. Let cool slightly.
4. Divide meat mixture into two portions. Shape each into a loaf shape. Place one loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon mushroom-Swiss mixture onto the meatloaf, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Top with remaining meatloaf and smooth out.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let rest before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño and Cheddar Meatloaf
Elevate your comfort food game with this bold and flavorful meatloaf recipe, combining the richness of cheddar cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 diced jalapeños
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, egg, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Meatloaf with Lemon and Herb Yogurt Sauce
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this flavorful meatloaf, infused with the bright zing of lemon and the creaminess of herb yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the yogurt sauce:
+ 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
+ 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
+ 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix yogurt sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Serve warm over the meatloaf.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Meatloaf with Corn and Black Beans
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional meatloaf with the bold flavors of Mexico, featuring sweet corn and black beans. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, black beans, corn kernels, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top with beaten egg and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto and Parmesan Stuffed Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this flavorful twist, featuring the rich combination of pesto and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture in half and shape each portion into a loaf.
4. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten-Free Meatloaf with Oatmeal Binder
Gluten-Free Meatloaf with Oatmeal Binder: A hearty and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Result: A delicious and moist gluten-free meatloaf with a slightly nutty flavor from the oatmeal binder. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion!
Honey Mustard Glazed Meatloaf
This classic meatloaf recipe gets a boost of flavor from a sticky honey mustard glaze, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich aroma and tender texture, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, honey, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the glaze by whisking together honey and mustard.
6. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush with glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf with Blue Cheese Drizzle
This recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the comforting warmth of meatloaf, finished off with a tangy blue cheese drizzle. Perfect for a game-day gathering or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz blue cheese crumbles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, buffalo wing sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and smooth out the top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, mix blue cheese crumbles with 1 tablespoon of ranch dressing (optional).
6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Drizzle the blue cheese mixture over the top of the sliced meatloaf and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Meatloaf recipe! Sweet caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese add a rich, savory flavor to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup caramelized onion (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Add the caramelized onion and Gruyère cheese; mix until well incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1/2 cup of sliced onions in 2 tbsp of oil over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Quinoa and Veggie Meatloaf for a Lighter Option
A twist on traditional meatloaf, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the savory taste of vegetables to create a healthier alternative. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs and spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, oats, mushrooms, carrot, zucchini, tomato paste, egg, and olive oil.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Meatloaf with Chipotle Glaze
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional meatloaf with the bold flavors of smoked meats and chipotle peppers. The result is a juicy, flavorful loaf that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or spoon until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place in the smoker for 4-5 hours.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the chipotle glaze by combining ketchup, brown sugar, and chipotle peppers in a small bowl.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the meatloaf with the chipotle glaze.
6. Remove from smoker and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Shepherd’s Pie Stuffed Meatloaf
This twist on classic meatloaf combines the comforting flavors of Shepherd’s Pie with the ease of a single-pan meal. The result is a juicy, flavorful meatloaf packed with sautéed vegetables and topped with a crispy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place in a 9×5-inch baking dish.
4. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf
Maple-Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf: A sweet and savory twist on a classic comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (optional)
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon whiskey (if using), and ketchup. Pour the glaze over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb Meatloaf with Mint and Tzatziki
This unique lamb meatloaf recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb, fresh mint, and tangy tzatziki sauce for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, mint, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with tzatziki sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Meatloaf with Tangy Tomato Sauce
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make slow cooker meatloaf recipe, smothered in a tangy tomato sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer meat mixture to the slow cooker.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Pour over the meatloaf.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 20 classic meatloaf recipes! From traditional homestyle to cheesy bacon-wrapped, BBQ-glazed, and spicy jalapeño-stuffed, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover unique flavor combinations like Italian-inspired with mozzarella and marinara, Greek-style with lemon and herb yogurt sauce, or Mexican with corn and black beans. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or looking for lighter options, this collection has got you covered.
