The Best Meatloaf From Scratch

Learn how to make a delicious meatloaf from scratch that is bursting with flavor, tender, and sure to become a family favorite with this easy to follow recipe.

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Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that never fails to satisfy. While there are countless recipes out there, nothing beats the taste of a homemade meatloaf made from scratch. I personally do not like meatloaf. I never have but it is one of my husband’s favorite foods so earlier this year I set out on a mission to make a delicious homemade meatloaf for him. After trying several he said I finally made the best meatloaf he’s ever had and to keep making it.

Tools You May Need

• Loaf pan – or similar shaped pan. This is going to help the meat loaf achieve a loaf shape.

A full list of tools and equipment needed can be found in the recipe card.

Ingredients

• Ground beef – Since ground beef is the main ingredient in this recipe it is important to choose a high quality ground beef. Choosing a lower quality can result in extremely greasy meatloaf or even soggy.
• Spices – The different spices used in this recipe are what gives the meatloaf its delicious flavor.
• Bread – Often times meatloaf recipes call for bread crumbs. If you prefer bread crumbs you can use them but I choose to use bread. We always have it on hand unlike breadcrumbs.

A full list of ingredients along with measurements can be found in the recipe card.

How to Make the Best Meatloaf From Scratch

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. In a large mixing bowl add in the ground beef along with all the other ingredients. Using a spoon or your hands combine all of the spices, onion, and bread pieces into the meat. Mix until the mixture is thoroughly combined.

3. Transfer the meat into a loaf pan. Firmly flatten out the meat to fill the bottom of the loaf pan. When the meat is evenly pressed out using your fingers run them along the edge of the meat. This will pull the meat away from the pan and give the meat more of a loaf shape.

4. Sprinkle the meatloaf with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and top with additional ketchup.

5. Bake uncovered in a 425°F oven for 45 minutes or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

6. Allow to cool 10 minutes before serving. This allows the meatloaf to firm up and cool making it easier to serve without falling apart.

To make sure your meatloaf is both juicy and safe to eat, be sure to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 160 °F (71 °C). That’s the USDA-recommended minimum for ground meats to eliminate harmful bacteria. Using an instant-read thermometer is the most accurate way to test doneness; color alone can’t be trusted.

Storage and Reheating Homemade Meatloaf

One of the best things about homemade meatloaf is that it tastes just as good the next day, maybe even better! Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers for another night, here’s how to store and reheat your meatloaf the right way.

Storing Meatloaf:

• Refrigerator: Allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Meatloaf freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil (or place in a freezer-safe container). It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating Meatloaf:

• Oven (Best Method): Place slices or a portion of meatloaf in a baking dish, cover with foil to lock in moisture, and warm at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave (Quick Method): Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water over medium-low heat until warmed through.

How to Use Leftover Meatloaf

1. Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice the leftover meatloaf and place it between two slices of bread or in a roll with your favorite condiments and toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a tasty sandwich.

2. Meatloaf Hash: Chop up the leftover meatloaf into small pieces and sauté it with diced potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and any other vegetables you have on hand. Top it off with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast or brunch dish.

3. Meatloaf Pasta Bake: Crumble the leftover meatloaf into bite-sized pieces and mix it with cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting casserole.

4. Meatloaf Tacos: Heat up the leftover meatloaf and serve it in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro for a fun twist on Taco Tuesday.

5. Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers: Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper half with crumbled leftover meatloaf mixed with rice or quinoa. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender for a healthy dinner option.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Fall Apart Dutch Oven Chicken – A cozy, home-cooked meal featuring tender chicken that practically melts off the bone.
• Redskin Mashed Potatoes – The perfect creamy, buttery side dish that pairs beautifully with classic meatloaf.
• Garden Fresh Zucchini Muffins – A lightly sweet way to use up garden zucchini, perfect as a snack or side.
• Fresh Milled Cornbread – Golden, slightly sweet cornbread made with freshly ground cornmeal for that from-scratch flavor.

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