This Homestyle Meatloaf is comfort food at its best — hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a no-fuss meal prep option that you'll look forward to eating all week long.
Ground beef serves as the hearty base of our meatloaf, providing richness and flavor. Look for an 80/20 blend for the best balance of taste and moisture. Breadcrumbs act as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding a bit of texture. Milk is added to soak the breadcrumbs, ensuring the meatloaf stays moist and tender. With eggs, you get both binding and richness, holding all the ingredients together seamlessly.
Onion and garlic are finely chopped to evenly distribute their savory flavors throughout the loaf. A bit of salt and black pepper balance and enhance the natural flavors of the meat and aromatics. Worcestershire sauce gives a subtle umami kick, while ketchup on top caramelizes as it bakes, creating a sweet and tangy crust. Dried thyme adds an earthy note, and fresh parsley brightens the dish with a pop of freshness.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly without drying out. While your oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and parsley in the bowl. Mix everything together gently until just combined — over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle.
Next, shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it in a baking dish. You want it to hold together without being too tightly packed. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf. This will form a delicious glaze as it bakes. Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and let it bake for about an hour, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the juices redistribute, making each slice juicy and flavorful.
Pair your meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic, comforting meal. Alternatively, try it with a crisp salad and crusty bread if you’re looking to keep things a bit lighter. Meatloaf sandwiches make fantastic leftovers — just add a slice between your favorite bread with a bit of extra ketchup or mustard.
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