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Best Homemade Meatloaf: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe Made Easy
Sophia Ramirez

Best Homemade Meatloaf: A Classic Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort of this classic homemade meatloaf. Crafted with high-quality ground beef, a moisture-locking panade of Panko and milk, and perfectly sautéed aromatics, this recipe ensures a tender, juicy slice every time. Designed to hold its shape beautifully without becoming dense or dry, it is the perfect hearty weeknight dinner that brings a touch of nostalgia to the family table. Simple, savory, and undeniably satisfying, this is the gold standard for your next Sunday roast-inspired meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs 80% lean ground beef
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1.5 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sauté the chopped onions in olive oil over medium heat until translucent and slightly golden; let cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the milk and Panko breadcrumbs and let sit for 5 minutes to form a panade.
  4. Add the ground beef, cooled onions, minced garlic, eggs, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the panade.
  5. Gently mix the ingredients with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  6. Form the mixture into a 9x4 inch loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Avoid over-mixing the beef, as this creates a tough, sausage-like texture. Letting the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes after baking is crucial for juice retention and ensuring the loaf holds its shape when sliced.