Classic Homemade Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Staple

Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
Ground beef: 1.8 kg (4 lb)
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Red bell pepper: 1 medium, finely chopped
Breadcrumbs: 80 g (2.8 oz)
Ketchup: 80 g (2.8 oz)
Eggs: 3 large
Salt: 8 g (0.3 oz)
Black pepper: 4 g (0.1 oz)
Sweet paprika: 8 g (0.3 oz)
Dried parsley: 8 g (0.3 oz)
Granulated garlic: 8 g (0.3 oz)
Optional Glaze:
Ketchup: 60 g (2 oz)
Brown sugar: 30 g (1 oz)
Mustard: 1 tsp
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
How to Make Classic Homemade Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a loaf pan or baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Chop the onion and red bell pepper finely. You want small pieces so they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, breadcrumbs, ketchup, and eggs.
Add the seasonings: salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, dried parsley, and granulated garlic.

Using clean hands or a spatula, gently mix the ingredients until everything is evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf by hand and place it on a baking sheet.
Press down gently to compact the mixture, ensuring it holds its shape while cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Optional Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a glossy, flavorful finish.
Step 5: Bake
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
Servings and Nutritional Information
Servings: 8 generous slices
Calories (per serving): ~350 kcal
Protein: 27 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 23 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: ~550 mg
Why Meatloaf Is a Timeless Recipe
Meatloaf has remained a staple of family dining for decades, and it’s easy to see why. This dish is the epitome of comfort food: warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Its flexibility allows for endless variations to suit any taste or dietary requirement, making it a universal favorite.

The beauty of meatloaf lies in its balance of simplicity and sophistication. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s both humble and elegant. It’s a canvas for creativity—experiment with different spices, add cheese for a gooey center, or incorporate vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to boost nutrition.

Meatloaf’s timelessness also stems from its practicality. It’s affordable, made with ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it feeds a crowd. Plus, it’s just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.

Conclusion
Classic Homemade Meatloaf is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to tradition, a celebration of flavors, and a testament to the art of home cooking. With its balance of simplicity and versatility, meatloaf has earned its place as a beloved dish across cultures and generations.