Classic Homestyle Meatloaf

This Classic Homestyle Meatloaf is everything you want in a comforting dinner. It’s moist, full of flavor, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes as it bakes. Made with simple ingredients, it brings that homemade taste everyone loves.

The Best Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe… Period

I’m no stranger to making a damn good meatloaf. My Best Damn Instant Pot Meatloaf, Stuffed Turkey Meatloaf, and Buttermilk Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze have all basked in their well-deserved moments of meaty fame. 

But last night, I did a little experimenting with a traditional meatloaf recipe. I had some leftover mascarpone cheese and thought, why not try adding it to the mix?  

This meatloaf turned out surprisingly rich and tender. The texture was soft and moist, and the flavor came together in a way that felt a little more special than usual. It quickly became a favorite, and honestly, it’s hard to go back to other versions after this one. A good meatloaf should be full of flavor and never dry, and this one checks all the boxes.

Full List of Ingredients

• Yellow onion & garlic: The aromatic base of the meatloaf!
• Breadcrumbs: Use whatever bread you have on hand, whether that’s regular or panko breadcrumbs.
• Egg: The glue that holds your meatloaf together.
• Ground beef: I like to use lean ground beef, but you can also use a mixture of ground pork and beef for added flavor.
• Milk: Works with the mascarpone to keep the meatloaf moist.
• Mascarpone cheese: The higher fat content in mascarpone cheese makes this meatloaf ultra-rich and moist.
• Lee & Perrins Worcestershire sauce: To me, this one has the best flavor… but any brand will do!
• Seasoning: I keep it simple with some oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Ketchup: You can’t have meatloaf without good ol’ ketchup!
• Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce: My favorite BBQ sauce to glaze the top of the meatloaf before baking.
• Brown sugar: Mix with BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy glaze on top.

Preparation

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a loaf pan (or just line it with parchment paper if you prefer).  

Grab a large skillet, heat it over medium, and add some olive oil. Toss in your diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring every so often, until it’s nice and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside.  

In a big bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Mix in the Worcestershire sauce, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper until it’s all combined.  

Now, stir in the breadcrumbs and mascarpone cheese. Make sure the mascarpone blends in nice and smooth.  

Next, add the sautéed onions and garlic to the bowl and give it a gentle mix. Finally, toss in the ground beef. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s all nicely combined.

Cooking

Scoop the meatloaf mixture into your loaf pan and shape it into, well, a loaf! 

In a small bowl, mix up the ketchup, BBQ sauce, and brown sugar. Then spread it evenly over the top of your meatloaf. 

Pop it in the oven and bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until the inside hits 160°F. 

For a little extra flavor, switch to broil for the last 2–3 minutes to get that glaze bubbling and slightly caramelized. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Serving

Now comes the grand finale! 

Take that glorious meatloaf out of the oven and let it sit tight for 10 minutes, it’s earned its moment to rest before stealing the show at the dinner table. Enjoy!

Storage & Reheating

Have leftover meatloaf? Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. 

To reheat, slice it and place it on a baking sheet with a little bit of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

Perfect Pairings for Your Classic Homestyle Meatloaf

Turn your meatloaf into the ultimate comfort food feast with my Best Damn Mashed Potatoes. They’re creamy, fluffy, and perfect with every bite. I also recommend my Best Damn Baked Mac and Cheese for extra cheesy goodness.

Want to keep it green? My Easy Stovetop Sautéed Green Beans are here to add some veggie flair. And if carbs are your love language, don’t miss my Best Damn Iron Skillet Cornbread recipe.

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