This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is a classic comfort food recipe made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, and a sweet ketchup glaze baked on top. It’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for a simple family dinner.
Served with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or roasted vegetables, this homemade meatloaf is the kind of meal that feels warm, familiar, and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf
This recipe is easy to make with basic ingredients and delivers that traditional homemade flavor everyone remembers. The breadcrumbs and milk help keep the meatloaf moist, while the onion, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, and garlic powder add savory flavor.
The topping is simple but delicious. Ketchup, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar create a sweet and tangy glaze that bakes beautifully over the meatloaf.
Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 pound 90% lean ground beef
- 1 cup dried breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish, loaf pan, or broiler pan. A broiler pan works well because it allows some of the excess grease to drain away while baking.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, milk, beaten egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Using clean hands or a large spoon, gently mix until everything is combined.
Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Place the meat mixture onto the prepared pan.
Shape it into a loaf, making sure it is even in thickness so it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, light brown sugar, and red wine vinegar until smooth.
This glaze gives the meatloaf a sweet, tangy, classic topping.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Use the back of a spoon to cover the surface completely.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for about 55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked.
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 8 to 10 minutes before slicing.
This helps the juices settle and makes the meatloaf easier to cut.
Serving Ideas
Old-fashioned meatloaf pairs perfectly with classic side dishes such as:
- Mashed potatoes
- Green beans
- Corn
- Macaroni and cheese
- Roasted carrots
- Dinner rolls
- Brown gravy
- Side salad
For a true comfort-food meal, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and extra glaze or gravy on the side.
Helpful Tips
Use 90% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and less grease.
Dice the onion finely so it blends into the meatloaf and cooks evenly.
Do not pack the meat mixture too tightly when shaping the loaf. A gently shaped loaf stays more tender.
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing is important. If you cut it too soon, the juices may run out and the slices may fall apart.
Storage Tips
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.
You can also freeze cooked meatloaf. Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Variations
For extra moisture, add a little more milk if the mixture feels too dry.
For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey or ground pork.
For a cheesier version, add shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture.
For a little spice, add a pinch of chili powder, smoked paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is simple, hearty, and full of classic homemade flavor. With tender beef, savory seasonings, and a sweet ketchup glaze, it’s a comforting dinner recipe that never goes out of style.
Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal the whole family will love.
