Description

This Quick and Delicious Meat Loaf is the perfect back-to-school dinner solution. It’s moist, tender, and full of flavor, yet simple enough for busy weeknights. Ready in under an hour, this comfort food classic pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, veggies, or even as leftovers for sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey/chicken)
1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free optional)
2 large eggs
½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional herbs: parsley, thyme, or Italian seasoning

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Sauté Aromatics: In a small pan, sauté chopped onion and garlic in a little oil for 2–3 minutes until softened (optional but adds flavor).
Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, sautéed onion and garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Shape and Transfer: Press the mixture gently into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Add Glaze: Spread a thin layer of ketchup (or tomato sauce) on top for a flavorful glaze.
Bake: Place in oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and Slice: Let the loaf rest 5–10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Storage: Wrap leftovers and refrigerate up to 4 days, or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Variations: Add grated veggies for extra nutrition, cheese for gooey flavor, or divide into muffin tins for mini loaves.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6th of loaf)
Calories: 310
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 95mg