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🥘Recipes by Nani
Dinner

Classic Homemade Meatloaf

A hearty, juicy meatloaf that brings comfort to the dinner table every single time.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· August 23, 2026
Classic Homemade Meatloaf
recipesbynani.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
60 minutes
Total
75 minutes
Serves
6

There is nothing quite like a classic meatloaf for a cozy family dinner. This recipe is one of my favorites because it is simple to put together and consistently delivers that tender, meaty texture we all love.

I find that the secret to a great meatloaf is not overworking the meat when you mix it. Serve this with some mashed potatoes and your favorite green vegetable for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

🧺 Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard

👩‍🍳Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, salt, and pepper.

  3. 3

    Mix everything together gently using your hands until just combined.

  4. 4

    Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or a loaf pan.

  5. 5

    In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, then brush this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

  6. 6

    Bake for about 60 minutes or until the center is cooked through.

  7. 7

    Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing so the juices settle.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches the next day, so do not be afraid to make a little extra.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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