Easy Meatloaf Recipe: Quick and Delicious Dinner Idea

This easy meatloaf recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to whip up a quick yet hearty meal for their family or guests. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, even the busiest home cooks can manage to create this classic dish without fuss. The recipe calls for straightforward ingredients like ground beef, egg, onion, milk, and bread crumbs, all of which are likely staples in your kitchen. With a cook time of one hour at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, this meatloaf delivers a deliciously savory flavor and comforting nostalgia that many people associate with home cooking. It serves eight, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings, and the iconic combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in the glaze adds a delightful sweet and tangy finish that elevates the meatloaf to the next level.

When it comes to serving suggestions, you can’t go wrong with traditional sides that complement the savory richness of the meatloaf. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted garlic carrots, or a light salad can enhance the meal while introducing a variety of textures and flavors. Additionally, the recipe’s flexibility allows for creative variations: feel free to swap bread crumbs for crushed crackers or even try different herbs and spices to suit your palate. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this meatloaf recipe offers both simplicity and satisfaction, making it a beloved classic in any household.

Summary

This easy meatloaf recipe is a quick and delicious option for a traditional family dinner, requiring only 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of cooking for a total of 1 hour and 15 minutes to yield an 8-serving, 9×5-inch meatloaf. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, onion, egg, milk, breadcrumbs, and a flavorful sauce of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, the meatloaf is baked until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The recipe also provides tips for serving suggestions and storage methods, including freezing options, ensuring that the meatloaf stays fresh for future meals. Community feedback highlights the recipe’s versatility, allowing for variations like mini loaves, making it ideal for busy cooks seeking easy meal prep solutions.