Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
From classic homestyle to cheesy bacon-wrapped, BBQ glazed to sweet and tangy, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering easy meatloaf recipes to spice up your dinner game. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight solution or a foodie seeking inspiration for a special occasion, this list has something for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these tasty twists on the classic meatloaf recipe. From easy to make and packed with flavor, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Classic Homestyle Easy Meatloaf
Satisfy your family’s comfort food cravings with this classic meatloaf recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Easy Meatloaf
A classic comfort food gets a delicious twist with this simple recipe that combines the savory flavors of bacon, cheese, and meatloaf. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Wrap the bacon slices around the meatloaf, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Glazed Easy Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of ground beef with the tanginess of BBQ glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the BBQ glaze all over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Easy Meatloaf
A classic comfort food with a flavorful twist, this garlic parmesan meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, ketchup, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatloaf and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Easy Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf, this recipe adds turkey and veggies to create a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, onion, bell pepper, carrot, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Easy Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf, this spicy sriracha version adds a bold kick to a comforting dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Sriracha sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mushroom and Onion Easy Meatloaf
This hearty meatloaf recipe combines the flavors of sautéed mushrooms and onions with ground beef, creating a deliciously easy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and mushrooms in a little oil until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked onion and mushroom mixture, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Easy Meatloaf
This classic comfort food gets a sweet and tangy twist with the addition of brown sugar, ketchup, and relish. This easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons relish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatloaf is baking, mix together ketchup and relish in a small bowl.
7. After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, brush the ketchup-relish mixture evenly over the top of the loaf.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
Keto-Friendly Easy Meatloaf
A classic comfort food gets a low-carb twist! This meatloaf recipe is a cinch to make and packed with flavor, all while staying within keto guidelines.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatloaf and bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Inspired Easy Meatloaf with Feta
This classic meatloaf gets a flavorful twist by incorporating the tanginess of feta cheese and the brightness of kalamata olives. A perfect combination for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, olives, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Brown Sugar Easy Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring the rich flavors of maple syrup and brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, onion, garlic, brown sugar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
4. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Easy Meatloaf
This spicy twist on classic meatloaf combines the comfort of a homemade loaf with the bold flavors of jalapeños. The result is a juicy, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, cilantro, jalapeño, and egg. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten-Free Easy Meatloaf
A classic comfort food with a twist! This gluten-free meatloaf recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup gluten-free oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, gluten-free oats, chopped onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Easy Meatloaf
This classic comfort food recipe gets a delicious twist with the ease of using a slow cooker. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a mouthwatering meatloaf ready to serve in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the mixture and stir until distributed evenly.
3. Crack in the egg and mix until the mixture is smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and shape into a loaf.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pesto and Mozzarella Easy Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this flavorful and moist recipe that combines the richness of mozzarella cheese with the vibrant taste of pesto. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Stir in pesto sauce until evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian-Style Easy Meatloaf with Ginger
This recipe combines the comfort of classic meatloaf with the bold flavors of Asian cuisine, featuring a sweet and savory glaze infused with ginger. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Smooth top.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Loaded Mashed Potato Easy Meatloaf
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and savory ketchup glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup loaded mashed potatoes (see below)
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Loaded Mashed Potatoes:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– Chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Meanwhile, prepare loaded mashed potatoes according to recipe below.
6. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush with ketchup glaze (1/2 cup ketchup mixed with 1 tbsp brown sugar). Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and scallions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Easy Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil! This easy recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, egg, and ketchup. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 18 mouthwatering easy meatloaf recipes! From classic homestyle to cheesy bacon-wrapped and BBQ glazed, there’s something for everyone. Try unique twists like garlic parmesan, turkey and veggie, spicy sriracha, or mushroom and onion. And don’t forget about keto-friendly, gluten-free, and slow cooker options. With these simple yet flavorful recipes, you’ll be a master meatloaf maker in no time. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, this collection has got you covered!