The Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever

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When you need a meal that’s hearty, comforting, and easy to whip up, nothing beats the best meatloaf recipe ever. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a nostalgic, homemade dish, this meatloaf will become a regular in your kitchen.

It’s simple to make, loaded with flavor, and perfectly moist without falling apart. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your favorite add-ins and seasonings.

Key Takeaways

• The Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever is juicy, flavorful, and foolproof.

• It’s ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, and comfort meals.

• You can easily add gut-friendly sides like roasted veggies or fermented pickles for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat if possible)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 eggs

• ½ cup milk

• ⅓ cup ketchup (plus more for topping)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

• Optional for gut health: Serve with a side of fermented veggies like sauerkraut or kimchi!

How to Make The Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs.

3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

4. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for that perfect glaze.

5. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

You’ll love how the best meatloaf recipe ever creates a moist, flavorful loaf that holds together beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Gut Health Twist

To make your meal even more gut-loving, pair your meatloaf with:

• Fermented foods: Kimchi, sauerkraut, or pickled onions (probiotic-rich)

• Fiber-rich sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots

• Healthy grains: A side of quinoa or brown rice for prebiotic fiber

Balancing your comfort food with gut-friendly options ensures you’re taking care of your digestive system while satisfying your cravings.

Final Thoughts

The best meatloaf recipe ever is a true classic that never goes out of style. With a perfect balance of moistness and flavor, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with gut-health-friendly sides for a meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
If you’re craving a hearty, homemade meal that feeds the body and the gut, you can’t go wrong with the best meatloaf recipe ever. 

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute ground turkey for beef in this recipe?
A: Yes! Ground turkey works great if you want a leaner version. Just add a little extra milk to keep it moist.

Q: How do I prevent my meatloaf from drying out?
A: Using enough moisture-rich ingredients like milk, eggs, and ketchup, and not overbaking, will keep your meatloaf juicy.

Q: Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oat flour.

Q: What’s a good gut-healthy side dish to serve with meatloaf?
A: Roasted veggies, fermented foods like sauerkraut, and fiber-rich salads are all perfect choices!