Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf

Name: Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg, beaten; ½ cup milk; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup ketchup (for topping)

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I absolutely love making this Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf because it brings back so many fond memories of family gatherings. The aroma wafting through the kitchen while it bakes is comforting and reminds me of home. Using a mix of flavorful ingredients, I find that this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart. It's the perfect dish for when I'm craving something hearty and nostalgic. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:13:14.939Z

When I first started making meatloaf, I didn't realize how much I could customize it to my taste. The key is balancing lean beef with the right mix of vegetables and breadcrumbs to maintain moisture throughout the cooking process. I've tried various additions from BBQ sauce to Italian herbs, and each twist brings something special to the table, making it a unique dish every time.

I also discovered that letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking makes a huge difference in how it slices. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, which means you'll get nice, neat slices instead of a crumbly mess. Trust me, this little step elevates your meatloaf game!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any weeknight dinner
Simple ingredients come together for maximum flavor
Versatile recipe that encourages your own personal twists

The Role of Each Ingredient

Each ingredient in this Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf plays a crucial role in both flavor and texture. The ground beef provides the hearty base, while the breadcrumbs act as a binder, helping to keep the meatloaf from becoming too dense. Onions and bell peppers add moisture and a subtle sweetness, contributing to the overall savory profile that’ll transport you back to family dinners.

Garlic is a key player as well; its aromatic qualities enhance the dish's depth. The Worcestershire sauce is not just a seasoning but a flavor enhancer, giving the meatloaf a savory umami note that elevates it beyond a basic ground beef mixture. Meanwhile, the egg serves as a binding agent, ensuring every slice holds its shape without crumbling.

Tips for Perfecting Your Meatloaf

One important tip for achieving the perfect meatloaf texture is to avoid overmixing. You want to combine the ingredients just until they’re incorporated; overworking can lead to a dense meatloaf. Aim for a homogeneous mixture, but stop stirring once every component is evenly distributed. When shaping your loaf, a slight indent in the center will help it cook evenly and prevent cracking on the top.

Another common pitfall is baking time. A digital meat thermometer is a great tool to ensure you reach the perfect internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have one, look for the meatloaf to be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear. If you prefer, let your meatloaf rest for longer than 10 minutes to enhance flavor redistribution, but don’t let it get cold.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Ingredients

1 ½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup ketchup (for topping)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread ketchup over the top.

Bake

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try incorporating your favorite herbs like parsley or oregano into the meat mixture. You can also swap the ketchup with BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Comfort Food Beef Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables are favorites in my household, as they complement the meatloaf's hearty flavors. You could also serve it with a fresh garden salad or sautéed greens for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of the remaining ketchup on the plate adds a familiar touch that's sure to remind everyone of childhood dinners.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider serving slices of meatloaf on toasted sandwich bread with a bit of gravy or barbecue sauce. This transforms leftovers into hearty meatloaf sandwiches that are perfect for lunch. A side of pickles or coleslaw can add a delightful crunch and tang that balances the meat's richness.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover meatloaf, make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Alternatively, place it in an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When reheating, gently warm the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to prevent it from drying out. You can add a splash of broth or a bit of ketchup on top before covering it with foil, which will help maintain moisture. Microwave reheating is also an option, but be mindful to do it in short intervals to keep the texture tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be a great substitute for a leaner option, though the texture may differ slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

→ Can I add vegetables to the mix?

Absolutely! Shredded carrots or zucchini can enhance both flavor and moisture.

→ What should I serve with meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad.