Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lb) ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
Binding Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or soaked bread)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk or water
Seasonings
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Optional Flavor Boosters
- 2 tablespoons ketchup or tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard
🧅 Preparing the Onion Base
Onions play a huge role in meatloaf flavor and moisture.
Step 1: Chop Finely
Finely chop the onion so it blends smoothly into the meat mixture.
Step 2: Sauté for Sweetness
Heat oil in a pan and cook the onions over medium heat until soft and lightly golden. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Let the mixture cool slightly before adding it to the meat. This prevents the eggs from cooking too early.
🍞 Preparing the Binder
The binder keeps the meatloaf tender and prevents it from becoming dense.
Step 1: Mix Breadcrumbs and Milk
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs with milk. Let soak for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Step 2: Add Eggs
Beat the eggs lightly and mix them into the breadcrumb mixture.
This creates a panade, which traps moisture inside the meat while baking.
🥣 Mixing the Meatloaf
Step 1: Add Meat to a Large Bowl
Place ground beef into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Add All Ingredients
Add:
- Cooked onions and garlic
- Breadcrumb mixture
- Salt and spices
- Ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard (if using)
Step 3: Mix Gently
Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined.
⚠️ Do not overmix—this can make the meatloaf tough.
🧱 Shaping the Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Press the Mixture In
Transfer the meat mixture into the pan and press gently to shape it evenly.
Avoid compacting it too tightly—air pockets help tenderness.
🍅 Optional Glaze (Highly Recommended)
A glaze adds flavor and keeps the top moist.
Simple Meatloaf Glaze
Mix:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Spread evenly over the top before baking.
🔥 Baking the Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Bake Covered
Cover the loaf loosely with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Step 3: Bake Uncovered
Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes, until cooked through.
Internal Temperature
- Safe internal temperature: 71°C (160°F)
⏱ Resting the Meatloaf
Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Why This Matters
- Keeps juices inside
- Improves texture
- Makes clean slices
Skipping this step can cause the meatloaf to fall apart.
🔪 Slicing and Serving
Use a sharp knife to slice the meatloaf into thick portions.
Best Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Green beans
- Simple salad
Drizzle with extra glaze or gravy if desired.
🧊 Storage and Reheating
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
- Keeps well for 3–4 days
Freezing
- Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
Reheating
- Oven: 160°C (320°F), covered
- Pan: Slice and reheat gently with a little oil
🌟 Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Use meat with some fat (not extra lean)
- Always sauté onions first
- Don’t skip the binder
- Avoid overmixing
- Let it rest before slicing
🌶 Delicious Variations
Cheesy Meatloaf
Add shredded cheese inside the mixture.
Spicy Meatloaf
Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Moroccan-Inspired
Add cumin, coriander, paprika, and parsley.
Chicken or Turkey Meatloaf
Replace beef with ground chicken or turkey (add extra oil).
❤️ Why This Recipe Works
This meatloaf is:
- Moist inside
- Well-seasoned
- Easy to prepare
- Perfect for families
It uses simple ingredients but delivers big flavor, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
⭐ Final Thoughts
This classic homemade meatloaf is the definition of comfort food. From its savory aroma while baking to its juicy, tender slices on the plate, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals ahead of time, this meatloaf recipe is reliable, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.