Kids Favorite Meatloaf Recipe

Name: Kids Favorite Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 80 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 0.5 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon prepared mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1.5 teaspoons onion powder; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon milk; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1.5 cups crispy wheat cereal squares; 1.5 pounds ground beef

Cook Time: 80 minutes

Ingredients

cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon prepared mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoons onion powder
teaspoon garlic powder
1 egg
1 tablespoon milk
teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cups crispy wheat cereal squares (such as Wheat Chex)
1 pounds ground beef

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Mix well until fully combined. Remove 4 tablespoons of this mixture and set aside for later use to top the loaves.

Step 3: Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, egg, milk, and ground black pepper to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is incorporated.

Step 4: Stir in the crispy wheat cereal squares and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the cereal to soften slightly.

Step 5: After the cereal has softened, break it up with your hands and add the ground beef. Mix everything together until the beef and cereal are fully combined.

Step 6: Shape the mixture into mini loaf pans. You can use individual mini loaf pans or create one large loaf and divide it later.

Step 7: Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 65 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Step 8: After 65 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the reserved ketchup mixture over the top. Return the loaves to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the glaze to set.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 334
Total Fat: 24g (30% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 9g (47% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 96mg (32% Daily Value)
Sodium: 612mg (27% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 15g (6% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 9g
Protein: 16g (33% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 8mg (8% Daily Value)
Calcium: 28mg (2% Daily Value)
Iron: 5mg (25% Daily Value)
Potassium: 330mg (7% 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.

Kids Favorite Meatloaf is a beloved American dish that combines simplicity with flavor, making it a staple in many households. This recipe stands out with its unique use of crispy wheat cereal squares, like Wheat Chex, instead of the typical breadcrumbs, offering a delightful crunch and an added layer of flavor. The combination of ground beef, eggs, and a sweet and tangy ketchup-mustard-brown sugar topping makes it a family favorite.

History and Origins

Meatloaf is a quintessential comfort food that has been around for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the 5th century in Europe, where it was common for people to mix chopped or ground meat with various ingredients to create a filling, affordable dish. However, the modern version of meatloaf as we know it today became popular in the United States during the 19th century, especially in the early 1900s when processed foods like breadcrumbs became widely available. The "Kids Favorite Meatloaf" recipe, however, is more of a contemporary twist on the classic, with the introduction of cereals to replace traditional bread crumbs, a fun and creative approach to an age-old dish.

Regional Variations

Across the United States, meatloaf takes on different regional flavors and ingredients. In Pennsylvania, for example, some versions incorporate cereal or crackers as binders, just like this recipe. In the South, its common to add a bit of heat, such as chili flakes or hot sauce, while in the Midwest, it may be served with mashed potatoes and a rich gravy. This particular meatloaf recipe is considered a comforting, universal version that is particularly well-loved by kids because of its sweet topping and familiar ingredients.

What Makes This Meatloaf Unique?

While traditional meatloaf recipes often rely on bread crumbs to bind the meat, the "Kids Favorite Meatloaf" uses crispy wheat cereal squares, which adds a crunchy texture and a slight sweetness. This innovation not only gives the meatloaf a unique twist but also makes it more exciting for children, who often appreciate the texture and the fun of eating something a little different. Additionally, the ketchup-mustard-brown sugar glaze that coats the meatloaf is a signature feature that adds moisture and a tangy-sweet flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Where is it Typically Served?

This dish is often served in family-style settings, perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's commonly accompanied by classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. Due to its ease of preparation and kid-friendly flavors, it's a go-to meal for parents looking to please picky eaters. Its also a fantastic choice for meal prep, as the leftovers make great sandwiches or can be served the next day in a variety of ways.

Fun Facts About Meatloaf

The concept of "meatloaf" dates back to the Middle Ages, but the modern meatloaf we know today became a popular American dish in the 19th century.
In some cultures, meatloaf is seen as a dish that brings families together, especially during times of economic hardship, as it stretches meat by mixing it with other fillers like breadcrumbs or oats.
In addition to the U.S., meatloaf is a favorite in many other countries, with each country adding its own unique twist. For example, in Germany, meatloaf (known as "Falscher Hase") often includes hard-boiled eggs in the center.
Its common for meatloaf to be served on sandwiches the next day. This is a favorite way to use up leftovers, especially in the United States where meatloaf sandwiches are an iconic part of lunch menus.

Whether you're making it for your kids or just craving a cozy, homey dinner, Kids Favorite Meatloaf is a timeless dish that brings comfort to the table. Its simplicity, combined with a hint of sweetness and crunch, makes it a standout recipe. With its ability to be customized and served in various ways, it remains one of the most adaptable and loved recipes in American households.

FAQ about Kids Favorite Meatloaf Recipe

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just slice it before freezing for easy portioning.

Yes, you can substitute the wheat cereal with other binders like breadcrumbs, oatmeal, or crushed crackers. Some people also use gluten-free cereals or bread crumbs if you prefer a gluten-free version.

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also form the loaves and freeze them for future use, baking them straight from the freezer when ready.

To reheat, place slices of meatloaf on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before baking. Shape the mixture into loaves and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Absolutely! You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. For example, you can add extra garlic, onion powder, or spices like paprika. Some people also like to add fresh herbs or hot sauce for extra flavor.

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as alternatives to beef. Keep in mind that the fat content may vary, and you might need to adjust cooking times slightly depending on the type of meat.

You can make individual meatloafs by using mini loaf pans, muffin tins, or shaping the mixture into small patties. Baking time will be shorter for individual portions, typically around 25-30 minutes.

Bake the meatloaf for 65 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you’re using mini loaf pans or muffin tins, the baking time may be reduced to about 25-30 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it's cooked through—at least 160°F (71°C).

Yes! Adding cheese is a great idea. You can mix in shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese of your choice into the meat mixture for a cheesy inside. You can also sprinkle cheese on top during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Comments

ELIZRA

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This is seriously one of the better meatloaves I've every had. I added one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and it tastes just like moms. I used rice chex and was surprised at how many people never heard of using cereal in meatloaf before; it is common in west central PA. I baked it on a cookie sheet and put a small cooling rack on the cookie sheet and the meatloaf on top of that. This way, the grease drips off the meatloaf and onto the cookie sheet (and you can line the sheet with foil for easy clean-up!) I did not reserve any of the ketchup/br. sugar mixture, but mixed it all in and it was very moist and tender. I mixed mustard, ketchup, and worcestershire sauce and spread it on top before I baked it. THANKS FOR THE RECIPE! I'll make this again and again.

Janice

02/07/2015 05:13:58 PM

This is great! I did add mozzarella cheese like one reviewer suggested simply because my kid loves cheese but I followed everything else as above and they turned out great. I cooked them in a mini muffin pan, also just because my kid thinks that is cute. So I only had to cook for 25 minutes and they were done.... I will make this again and again!

PTFoodie

10/11/2011 07:19:27 PM

Other then using fresh garlic and onion i didn't change much. I also used a cupcake pan lined with plastic wrap to form mini meatloaf's and then turned them out onto a pan with a rack so the fat dripped off. WOW!! My 6 year old son ate 2. They were so good. and the wheat chex mix worked out wonderful. This one is a keeper. Thanks so much.

nanerbug21

05/13/2014 07:50:46 AM

I add a cup or so of mozzarella to the meat mixture, then form two loafs by hand, place on a wire rack on top of a foil lined baking sheet for easy clean up. My husband raves about this meatloaf, and he is the pickiest man I have ever met!

Laura Krueger

03/22/2011 07:03:20 PM

This is the most delicious meatloaf I have ever had! I cook and eat dinner with my parents once a week so when my dad requested meatloaf I was a little nervous because I've never had a meatloaf that I really liked. I looked at lots of recipes but quickly chose this one because I liked the look of the ingredients. I didn't have cereal so I used three slices of white bread crumbled and a half cup italian style bread crumbs. I also put it under the broiler for five minutes at the end. Between just me my mom and dad we ate almost the whole thing! I'm sure the leftovers will make a fabulous sandwich! Can't wait to make it again...

novice cook

11/30/2007 06:52:44 PM

Not usually a meatloaf fan but I wanted to try something different. I was quite impressed! I tweaked the mix a bit- cut sugar in half (after reading some of the other reviews) and doubled the Worcestershire Sauce. I also opted to use muffin tins and baked them for 20 mins before adding the sauce to the top and baking for an additional 10 minutes. My husband said this recipe is a keeper!

BRYSTONMAMA

11/18/2008 11:30:58 AM

I took this a step futher. I rolled it out flat then put sliced ham and swiss cheese down. Roll up the meatloaf and its now a pinwheel. I baste in sauce and bake. If the sauce starts to burn cover with tinfoil until cooked all the way through.

Apollari

09/29/2011 03:47:15 PM

Really really good. I was not quite sure what "mini loaf pans" were, so I used metal cookie cutters on a cookie sheet, (for the kids) and I made the reminder of the mixture into a normal loaf for us adults. I also did not have any wheat cereal so I used panko bread crumbs. It really turned out good. I wanted to add the mozzarella like another reviewer said, but I forgot. I will try that next time. Because the cookie cutters were pretty small, I did not have to cook that long. I took them out of the oven after about 45 mins. All in all, a great recipe. Thanks Mike B.

Kathy F

09/30/2011 03:59:12 PM

This is the best meatloaf you will ever eat !!! I added about 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and used all of the ketchup-mustard-brown sugar mixture in the ground beef and made another batch to top the meatloaf with. I made this in a regular meatloaf pan and it took about the same amount of time 65 min. It was so flavorful and moist, it is truly a GREAT meatloaf !!!!!!!!!

Molly

09/14/2011 08:49:33 PM

My husband and I really liked this meatloaf. Meatloaf hating son even ate one. I used 2 pounds of hamburger as that is what was thawed. I "free formed" the mixture and baked on a parchment lined cookie sheet that had sides on it. I got 12 mini loaves. I froze the leftovers and they heat up great in the microwave. Thanks Mike for a very good recipe. I will be making these again.

SBG

02/20/2012 09:41:54 AM

I wanted to try this recipe as I wanted a Gluten Free meatloaf..so I used rice and corn Chex Mix instead of the wheat. My husband declared this the best meatloaf he had ever had..and I agreed! I used 3/4 of the mixture to make one small meatloaf and added rice to the rest of the mixture and stuffed 2 red peppers..added a little spaghetti sauce to the pan and those were fantastic too!! Can't wait to make again..was gone too fast. Just the right combination of spices..

Rachel

12/31/2024 09:44:46 PM

Best meatloaf I’ve ever had and great with mashed potatoes!

rrika

08/03/2024 02:04:09 PM

My family loved this! My picky boys ate two servings, which is rare. The loaves were very crispy and the sauce was tangy and perfect. This one’s a keeper! Changes: I added minced onion

DreamySpam1156

03/24/2024 05:00:55 PM

yum!

Christopher Phillips

02/27/2024 03:21:24 AM

Bro, I’m obsessed.

MLM

04/26/2019 12:50:16 AM

Delicious!! My grandma made it and we are making it again soon. Love, Annie (MLM's Granddaughter)

Debbiedo

03/11/2019 12:37:53 PM

It’s the only meat loaf I make! I really wasn’t a big fan of meat loaf, now I love it! This is a must make!!!

Greg

08/13/2018 12:55:52 AM

I went with a cup of plain bread crumbs I had on hand.

George Phillips

03/28/2017 03:23:35 AM

This recipe is now a staple in my house.

TENGURAS

03/12/2017 11:48:09 PM

I'm now the only one in the family allowed to make meatloaf - says the kids!

Cook Time: 60 minutes