Best Ever Meat Loaf Recipe

Name: Best Ever Meat Loaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; 0.66666668653488 cup milk; 2 teaspoons salt; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper; 3 slices bread, crumbled; 1.5 pounds ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; 0.5 cup shredded carrot; 0.25 cup brown sugar; 0.25 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Meatloaf Recipe

Original Recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

Ingredients

2 large eggs
cup milk
2 teaspoons salt
teaspoon ground black pepper
3 slices bread, crumbled
1 pounds ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
cup shredded carrot
cup brown sugar
cup ketchup
1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and ground black pepper. Add the crumbled bread and stir until it's well combined and the bread has dissolved into the mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate the ground beef, chopped onion, shredded Cheddar cheese, and shredded carrot into the bread mixture. Once everything is evenly mixed, transfer it to a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the meat mixture in the loaf pan.

Step 5: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the center is no longer pink. To check for doneness, use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 160F (70C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 410
Total Fat: 23g (29% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 10g (52% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 155mg (52% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1227mg (53% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 22g (8% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 14g
Protein: 28g (57% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
Calcium: 223mg (17% Daily Value)
Iron: 3mg (17% Daily Value)
Potassium: 435mg (9% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is based on available data and may vary. Please consult with a doctor or dietitian for personalized advice.

Best Ever Meat Loaf Recipe

Meatloaf is a beloved dish that has become a staple of American comfort food. The recipe we present today, known as the Best Ever Meat Loaf, has earned rave reviews for its perfect balance of flavor and texture. But what is the story behind this iconic dish, and what makes it stand out from other variations? Let's explore the origins, regional variations, and some interesting facts about meatloaf.

History of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has its roots in European cuisine, with early recipes appearing in the Middle Ages. The idea of combining ground meat with breadcrumbs or filler to stretch portions was an economical solution, especially in times of scarcity. The dish gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century, when it became a common feature in cookbooks and home kitchens. The addition of ingredients like ketchup or gravy on top made it a comforting and easy-to-make dish. Over time, regional twists and flavor variations emerged, making meatloaf a flexible and adaptable dish.

Regional Features of Meatloaf

In the United States, meatloaf is a beloved dish with distinct regional differences. The most popular version of meatloaf, as seen in this Best Ever Meat Loaf recipe, typically includes ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and a sweet glaze made from ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. In some Southern states, the dish might be enhanced with BBQ sauce, while in the Midwest, it may include bacon or sausage for additional flavor.

Internationally, variations of meatloaf can be found in many countries. For example, in Sweden, a similar dish called kottfars is made with meatballs or a loaf-shaped mixture of minced meat. Meanwhile, in Germany, the dish is often referred to as fleischbraten, where it is traditionally served with potatoes or red cabbage.

What Makes It Different from Other Meatloaf Recipes?

The Best Ever Meat Loaf recipe stands out because of the unique combination of ingredients. Unlike many traditional meatloafs, this version incorporates shredded cheddar cheese and carrots, adding depth to the flavor and moisture. The sweet and tangy glaze made with ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar perfectly complements the savory nature of the meatloaf, giving it a delightful balance of flavors.

Moreover, this recipes method of mixing ground beef with a bread mixture ensures a tender, moist loaf, avoiding the dryness that sometimes plagues other meatloaf recipes. The addition of cheese makes this meatloaf richer, and the soft texture makes it irresistible. It's an ideal choice for those who seek a comforting and satisfying meal.

Where Is Meatloaf Typically Served?

Meatloaf is traditionally served as a home-cooked dish, often in family settings, and is associated with American family dinners. It is commonly served alongside mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a side salad, making it a well-rounded meal. In restaurants, especially diners and casual eateries, you might find meatloaf on the menu as a comforting, everyday option.

It is also a popular choice for meal prep, as it can be easily made in advance and stored for later consumption. Leftover meatloaf can be sliced and served cold in sandwiches, or reheated for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner the next day.

Interesting Facts about Meatloaf

Meatloaf was a favorite dish of the American president, Ronald Reagan, who often requested it for his meals in the White House.
In the 1950s and 1960s, meatloaf became a staple of TV dinners, thanks to its ability to hold up well during freezing and reheating.
The largest meatloaf ever made weighed over 2,000 pounds and was created in 2014 in Japan as a part of a food festival.
Meatloaf is often used as a creative canvas for many chefs, with variations ranging from vegetarian versions made with lentils or plant-based meat to gourmet twists that include exotic spices, mushrooms, or cheese.
In some cultures, meatloaf is prepared as a sandwich filling, much like a burger, which can be a fun twist on the traditional preparation.

Whether you're serving it at a family dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, the Best Ever Meat Loaf recipe provides a flavorful, moist, and comforting experience that has stood the test of time. This versatile dish has adapted to different tastes and preferences while remaining a true American classic.

FAQ about Best Ever Meat Loaf Recipe

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. To do so, allow the meatloaf to cool completely after baking. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually 25-30 minutes.

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a meatloaf mix (a combination of beef, pork, and veal). Keep in mind that different meats may require slight adjustments to the cooking time or seasoning to achieve the best flavor and texture.

To make this meatloaf gluten-free, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use rolled oats or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for the bread crumbs.

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meatloaf. Just be sure to chop them finely or sauté them beforehand to release excess moisture, ensuring the meatloaf holds together properly.

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you'd like to keep it for longer, you can freeze the leftovers as described above. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Yes, you can make the meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the meatloaf as instructed, but instead of baking it, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed. This can also be done for freezing; prepare the meatloaf, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for later use.

If you don’t have cheddar cheese, you can substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will slightly alter the flavor of the meatloaf, but it will still be delicious!

The best way to check if the meatloaf is fully cooked is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf, and it should read at least 160°F (70°C). This ensures that it is safe to eat and that the meatloaf is cooked through.

Yes, you can adjust the size of the loaf pan depending on the amount of meat mixture. If you use a smaller pan, the cooking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on it and check with a thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked. Similarly, a larger pan may require a bit more time in the oven.

Yes, you can use different types of mustard, such as Dijon, spicy brown, or honey mustard, to suit your taste. Keep in mind that some mustards may alter the flavor profile, so choose one that complements the other ingredients.

Comments

Donna

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This was absolutely the best meatloaf I have ever made, or had for that matter, in my life. I highly recommend it. The savory sweet glaze is fantastic! My whole crew normally puts ketchup on everything. Not one of them reached for it!! Amazing!

Ian

04/11/2025 12:03:50 AM

Fantastic meatloaf recipe and my go-to at this point. I always add some assorted seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, old bay, etc.) to the loaf and a little A1 to the sauce. Sometimes I mix 1lb turkey with 1/2 lbs beef for an almost zero-grease final product. Also I bake it in muffin tins to cut the cook time down to about 30 minutes!

Connie Marse

04/14/2024 11:23:49 AM

This might be okay, my microwave meatloaf is quicker, moist and tastier. I use instant oatmeal instead of bread crumbs and add half of the topping to the meat mixture. Only 12 minutes in the microwave.

Claire

07/14/2017 11:04:40 AM

My family loves this, have been using this recipe for a few years. I only buy Italian breadcrumbs so that's what I use. I found the carrots to sometimes be not quite soft enough. So, I aways put carrots in water, pop in microwave for 1 1/2 minutes; cool, drain and then add. The first time i accidentally added the brown sugar, mustard & ketchup into meat mixture - still turned out great so i still add a bit in there too as well as on top.

HR Visser

06/09/2023 03:39:27 AM

Moist And delicious! Made into individual loaves and took 1/2 the cooking time. Also made on the bbq! Will make again!

Sue Taylor

05/08/2025 04:24:59 PM

Love this! Costco packages hamburger as 1.3 lbs, so I used less milk. I mixed both bread crumbs and quick cooking oats. I added powdered mustard, onion salt, garlic salt. The sauce on top was perfect as is. I cooked in several mini casserole dishes for about 45 minutes.

TastyBread6789

01/29/2025 07:50:21 PM

This is a great recipe! I made my own variation using the ingredients and directions as my base recipe. I also added horseradish, parsley and dill to the ingredients, and used dijon instead of yellow mustard. I had some ground pork and veal in the freezer so I made a double batch using 1 lb of beef and a lb of each of those meats. Doubled the other recipe ingredients appropriately. The outcome was WOW! Moist and not crumbly. The addition of the pork was a nice feature. The next time I make meatloaf, I am going to make a single batch but use 1 lb ground beef AND 1 lb ground pork with no variation to the other recipe ingredient quantities.

Allrecipes Member

11/29/2020 01:17:37 PM

I added ground pork and used a special meatloaf pan which separated fat from the meatloaf while cooking. The meatloaf is very juicy but not greasy and we enjoyed the ketchup glaze!

Dal

02/20/2021 11:10:16 PM

Stumbled upon this recipe when wanting to use up some of my carrots. However, I wanted to also stay true to some of my own version so I used 1 cup of Panko bread crumbs in place of bread slices, placed slices of mozzarella cheese, in lieu of cheddar on flattened meat mixture and sealed cheese by forming into a loaf. I always lay 1/2 slices of uncooked bacon across the top. This is my new and favorite meatloaf.

Bettie Combs

02/05/2021 10:45:50 PM

It was just okay for me. I used one pound of ground beef and that was the only change I made. It was good and moist. I didn’t really like the glaze. I will make it again but I will add a little celery and a little bell pepper and more spices. I will also top it with a glaze more to my liking (definitely without sugar). It’s a pretty good recipe once it’s personalized to your liking :)

SteadyDosa1772

11/23/2023 07:39:13 AM

I’m a vegetarian, but meatloaf was one of my favorite things as a meat eater… I have not had meatloaf in 20 years, but I decided to make this with impossible meat. I didn’t have high hopes… This was phenomenal… Great for a vegetarian. The topping was a little too sweet, but I accidentally cooked it covered, so maybe that played a hand? I did not have carrots, and I used Panko breadcrumbs, but it was awesome

Paul

09/11/2025 01:37:07 AM

I wish I had found this earlier. This is the Only recipe I need for meatloaf

Forrest Halford

08/05/2025 04:57:13 PM

I have made this many times. Always good!

karlderspinnt

08/03/2025 12:43:40 AM

We substituted Italian Stewed Tomatoes instead of the Canned Tomatoes. We also added 1/3 pound HOT ITALIAN SAUSAGE!

GoldGhee8857

05/30/2025 03:19:18 PM

No changes. This is the best meatloaf I have ever made.

BonsaiGerry

05/26/2025 01:46:10 PM

Adding More Ketchup made a nice top layer.

padnurse

05/03/2025 04:27:42 PM

Loved the shredded carrots & onion. I added 5 oz fresh spinach chopped fine in food processor. I doubled the recipe & made in small loaf pans & served 6 & had leftovers. I also reduced the salt to 1 1/2 tsp & increased pepper to 1/2 tsp.

Leeann Shoemaker

04/28/2025 02:02:12 AM

My husband and I love it. I do leave out the carrots and cheese. That is a more traditional meatloaf recipe.

Ronald Anderson

04/16/2025 12:38:55 AM

Bro, I officially feel like a master chef.

ksquaired

04/13/2025 01:35:47 AM

This is a very good recipe.

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Best Ever Meat Loaf Recipe