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–+ servings
a sliced meatloaf in a loaf pan.
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4.71 from 86 votes

Easy Meatloaf

This Meatloaf melts in your mouth with a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and hearty flavors! It's our family's beloved classic, effortlessly combining juicy pork and beef with a rich, smoky barbecue glaze, promising a comforting, delicious meal every time. Your plate will be a canvas of cherished, homey tastes that keep you coming back for that 'just one more' slice!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time1 hour 40 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: meatloaf, sunday supper
Servings: 8
Calories: 386kcal
Author: Joanna Cismaru

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs such as Panko or Italian
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 large onion finely chopped or grated
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ medium green bell pepper finely chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce use your favorite
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon pepper or to taste
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350℉. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray; set aside.
  • Add the breadcrumbs and the milk to a large bowl, and stir it together. Let the breadcrumbs soak in the milk for about a minute.
    process shots showing how to make meatloaf.
  • Add the rest of the ingredients but only add about ¾ cup of the barbecue sauce to the meat mixture. Mix the entire meat mixture well using your hands or a spoon, but do not overmix.
    process shots showing how to make meatloaf.
  • Add the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Brush with the remaining barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
  • Transfer the loaf pan to the oven and bake for 60 to 80 minutes or until done. Best way to tell when a meatloaf is done is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the meatloaf and when it reaches 160℉, it's done.
    process shots showing how to make meatloaf.
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing into it.

Video

Notes

  1. BBQ Sauce Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce, whether it's tangy, spicy, or smoky - each one will add a unique twist to your meatloaf.
  2. Breadcrumb Alternatives: If Panko isn’t in your pantry, traditional breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even rolled oats can be substituted in equal measure.
  3. Vegetable Twist: For added nutrition and a veggie boost, consider mixing in finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini to your meat mixture.
  4. Resting Time: Letting the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing helps it retain its juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
  5. Leftover Creativity: Transform leftover meatloaf into delicious sandwiches for lunch the next day or crumble it atop a salad for a protein kick!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 386kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 850mg | Potassium: 521mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 154IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 70mg | Iron: 3mg