Classic Meatloaf
Make a tender beef meatloaf with a tangy ketchup glaze, finely chopped onion, and milk-soaked breadcrumbs for a familiar family dinner.
- Prep time
- 20 min
- Cook time
- 1 hr
- Total time
- 1 hr 30 min
- Servings
- 6

Soaking breadcrumbs before mixing helps the meatloaf stay tender and slice neatly. Shape it on a rimmed baking sheet so the glaze covers more surface and excess fat can drain away. Mix gently with your hands or a fork; packing the beef tightly makes the texture dense. A thermometer determines when the center is ready.
Classic Meatloaf
Serves 6 · Prep 20 min · Cook 1 hr · Rest 10 min · Total 1 hr 30 min
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a large bowl; let soak for 5 minutes while chopping the onion.
- Add beef, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons ketchup. Mix gently until evenly combined.
- Shape into a 9-by-5-inch (23-by-13 cm) loaf. Mix remaining ketchup with brown sugar and vinegar; spread half over the loaf.
- Bake for 40 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake 15 to 20 minutes longer, until the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest for 10 minutes. Transfer carefully to a board and cut into six thick slices.
A few kitchen notes
- Insert the thermometer from the side to reach the center.
Ingredient substitutions
- Replace milk with unsweetened oat milk in the same volume.
Storage & reheating
Refrigerate within 2 hours for 3 days. Reheat slices, covered, to 165°F (74°C). Freeze for up to 2 months.
What to serve with it
Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
Comments & kitchen questions
Have a question, a useful substitution, or a result to share? Your feedback helps us make this recipe clearer and more useful.
Questions from the kitchen
Can I make Classic Meatloaf ahead?
Refrigerate within 2 hours for 3 days. Reheat slices, covered, to 165°F (74°C). Freeze for up to 2 months.
What if I can’t find an ingredient?
Replace milk with unsweetened oat milk in the same volume.
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