I love a good meatloaf, and I bet you do too! It’s a classic comfort food that truly brings warmth to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or looking for a comforting lunch, there’s a meatloaf recipe for everyone.
Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite ways to enjoy this hearty dish. We’re looking at different styles of meatloaf, from quick lunches to satisfying main courses. I hope you find your next go-to recipe here!
Jump to Recipe:
- 1. Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf
- 2. Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy
- 3. Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf
- 4. Meatloaf Sandwich
Simple Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf
This meatloaf recipe uses onion soup mix for an easy burst of flavor. It’s a fantastic choice when you want a delicious meal without a lot of fuss. It makes weeknight cooking simple and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Onion Soup Meatloaf
- Dry Onion Soup Mix: This is the star ingredient! It adds a lot of flavor and keeps the ingredient list short and simple.
- Liquid Choice: Use water or milk to help moisten the meatloaf mixture. Milk can add a bit more richness.
- Optional Topping: A simple ketchup or BBQ sauce glaze adds a nice finish and extra flavor during the last 15 minutes of baking.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup water or milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (for topping, optional)
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 5 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, dry onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, and water or milk. Mix gently with your hands until everything is just combined.
Step 2: Form and Bake
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or a loaf pan. If using an optional topping, spread ketchup over the top.
Step 3: Cook and Serve
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
📝 Final Note
This meatloaf is great with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple garden salad for a complete meal.
Homemade Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy
This recipe takes a classic meatloaf and pairs it with a rich mushroom gravy. It’s a truly hearty dinner that’s perfect for a cozy night in. The gravy adds so much flavor to your tender meatloaf.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Meatloaf & Gravy
- Fresh Mushrooms: Use fresh cremini or button mushrooms for the best texture and taste in your gravy.
- Meatloaf Binder: Breadcrumbs and an egg are important for holding your meatloaf together and keeping it moist. Don’t skip them!
- Resting Time: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the juices settle, making it easier to slice and keeping it tender.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Form and Bake the Loaf
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest after baking.
Step 3: Prepare the Mushroom Gravy
While the meatloaf rests, melt butter in a saucepan. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened. Stir in flour, then slowly whisk in beef broth. Cook until the gravy thickens.
Step 4: Serve
Slice the rested meatloaf and serve warm with plenty of the delicious mushroom gravy poured over the top. This pairs well with mashed potatoes or green beans.
📝 Final Note
You can make the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and make fresh gravy.
Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf
Surprise your family with this fun and cheesy meatloaf. It has a gooey mozzarella center that everyone will love. This recipe makes meatloaf extra special.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Stuffed Meatloaf
- Quality Mozzarella: Use low-moisture, shredded mozzarella or mozzarella sticks. Fresh mozzarella might release too much water.
- Seal it Tight: Make sure you fully enclose the cheese within the meatloaf mixture to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix your meatloaf ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 10 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Stuff with Mozzarella
Divide the meatloaf mixture in half. Form one half into a rectangular shape on a baking sheet. Place the shredded mozzarella down the center. Cover with the remaining meatloaf mixture, shaping it into a loaf and sealing the edges well.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf
Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
📝 Final Note
A meatloaf pan with a lifter can make removing and draining fat much easier, resulting in a less greasy meatloaf.
Quick & Easy Meatloaf Sandwich
Sometimes, the best meals come from leftovers. This simple meatloaf sandwich turns your dinner into a perfect, quick lunch. It’s truly a classic comfort meal.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Meatloaf Sandwiches
- Good Bread Choice: A sturdy bread like sourdough or thick-cut white bread holds up well to the meatloaf and any sauces you add.
- Essential Condiments: Ketchup and mayonnaise are classic choices, but a little mustard or even a spread of your leftover gravy works beautifully.
What You Need
- 2 slices of your favorite bread
- 2-3 slices cooked meatloaf
- 1 tablespoon ketchup or your preferred sauce
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- Lettuce or pickle slices (optional)
⏱️ Time: 5 minutes🍽️ Yields: 1 sandwich
How to Make It
Step 1: Get Your Meatloaf Ready
Make sure your meatloaf is sliced and ready. You can use it cold, or gently warm it in a pan or microwave if you like a warm sandwich.
Step 2: Assemble Your Sandwich
Spread ketchup on one slice of bread and mayonnaise on the other. Place your meatloaf slices on one side, then add any optional lettuce or pickles.
Step 3: Enjoy Your Meal
Top with the second slice of bread. Press gently and slice in half if you wish. Your quick meatloaf sandwich is ready to enjoy!
📝 Final Note
For a little extra something, try toasting your bread before assembling the sandwich.