Homemade Classic Meatloaf Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting classic meatloaf recipe that brings tender, savory flavor to every bite. With simple ingredients and an easy prep, this homestyle favorite is perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Meatloaf is a classic recipe for our family. Even though I wasn't a fan when I was younger, as I've gotten older I've come to appreciate the simplicity in this recipe. Now, this homemade classic meatloaf has become a go to comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfying. It’s amazing how a few basic ingredients – ground beef, and a blend of spices can come together to create something so hearty and delicious.

How to Make Classic Meatloaf From Scratch

The ingredients and directions listed below walk you through making this amazing classic meatloaf recipe. If you don't have oats on hand, you can easily substitute it with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or even crushed pork rinds. You can also switch up the seasonings you add also. The options are endless!

This recipe will makes 6 servings. If you need extra, simply double or triple the recipe to enjoy this amazing dinner idea.

  • 1.5 lbs, Ground Beef
  • ¾ cup, Oats (quick or old fashioned)
  • ¾ cup, Milk
  • 1 Egg
  • ½ cup, Onion, finely diced
  • 1 ¼ tsp, Salt
  • ¼ tsp, Pepper

Meatloaf Topping

  • 2/3 cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons mustard

How to Make the Best Homemade Meatloaf

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 
  2. Combine all ingredients (excluding topping ingredients) into a medium bowl. Using clean hands, mix the ingredients just until incorporated. Overmixing may result in a tougher meatloaf.
  3. Transfer meat to a loaf pan, and press the surface until it’s even.
  4. Mix topping ingredients in a small bowl. Pour over the top of the meatloaf, and spread evenly over the surface.
  5. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
  6. Remove from oven and drain off excess grease. You may need to spread the topping once more after draining, so it evenly covers the surface.
  7. Allow the meatloaf to cool for up to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes: Use a fattier ground beef for this meatloaf! It will result in a more moist and flavorful final result due to the extra fat. A lean ground beef may result in a dried out version. There will be a layer of grease once this comes out of the oven, but after simply pouring it off – it’s perfection!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Easy Recipes Family Dinner

If you want to see how meal plan and prep weekly can save you lots in your budget, check more meal plan ideas with easy recipes. Our family loves the restaurant copycat recipes too!

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Homemade Classic Meatloaf Recipe

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  • Author: Andrea Deckard
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 3 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

    • 1.5 lbs, Ground Beef
    • ¾ cup, Oats (quick or old fashioned)
    • ¾ cup, Milk
    • 1 Egg
    • ½ cup, Onion, finely diced
    • 1 ¼ tsp, Salt
    • ¼ tsp, Pepper

Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
    2. Combine all ingredients (excluding topping ingredients) into a medium bowl. Using clean hands, mix the ingredients just until incorporated. Overmixing may result in a tougher meatloaf.
    3. Transfer meat to a loaf pan, and press the surface until it’s even.
    4. Mix topping ingredients in a small bowl. Pour over the top of the meatloaf, and spread evenly over the surface.
    5. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
    6. Remove from oven and drain off excess grease. You may need to spread the topping once more after draining, so it evenly covers the surface.
    7. Allow the meatloaf to cool for up to 10 minutes before serving.

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