This Best Meatloaf recipe comes straight from my husband’s Granny’s kitchen. With her Tennessee roots and true Southern charm, Granny knew how to make a moist, flavorful meatloaf that brought the whole family running to the table. Her slightly sweet, slightly tangy topping gave each bite the perfect balance of flavors.
Today, I’m sharing my version of her beloved Southern meatloaf recipe, keeping all the heart and flavor while making it easy enough for busy weeknights.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Best Meatloaf Recipe
- Equipment You’ll Need
- Ingredients and Substitutions
- How to Cook the Best Meatloaf Recipe
- Best Meatloaf Recipe Variations
- Different Ways to Enjoy this Recipe
- Tips for Success
- How to Store & Reheat Best Meatloaf Recipe
- Cooking With Lori Quality Seasonings
- FAQ
- More Delicious Recipes to Try
- Other Cooking With Lori Recipes
- Southern Best Meatloaf Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Best Meatloaf Recipe
There are so many reasons this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
- First, it’s so simple to make – just mix, shape, top, and bake, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Next, it’s high in protein, providing a satisfying dinner that keeps you full and energized.
- In addition, it’s made with healthy and delicious ingredients – no mystery fillers here, just wholesome goodness.
- Moreover, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make it once and enjoy it all week, saving both time and effort.
- Even better, it’s completely customizable. You can swap proteins, add veggies, or tweak the topping to suit your tastes.
- Finally, it’s family-approved – even picky eaters can’t resist it.
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this simple meatloaf recipe, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools.
- First, grab a large mixing bowl to combine all the meatloaf ingredients.
- Then, use a small bowl to mix the tangy topping separately.
- Next, have a knife and cutting board ready for chopping the onion and bell pepper.
- After that, prepare a medium sheet pan to shape and bake your loaf.
- Additionally, line the sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Finally, use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise ingredient portions.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Here’s what makes this Best Meatloaf recipe so delicious, along with simple substitutions:
Meatloaf Ingredients
- First, we start with ground beef (2 lbs) – the rich flavor and fat content make for a moist loaf.
Sub: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. - Next, eggs (4) help bind the meatloaf together.
Sub: Try flax eggs for a dairy-free or egg-free option. - Then, quick oats (1 ½ cups) add structure and soak up the flavorful juices.
Sub: Use bread crumbs or crushed crackers if preferred. - After that, onion (½ cup, finely chopped) brings sweetness and depth of flavor.
Sub: Swap in onion powder for a smoother texture. - Additionally, red bell pepper (½ cup, finely chopped, optional) adds both sweetness and a pop of color.
Sub: Use green pepper for a different flavor, or omit entirely. - Meanwhile, shredded cheddar cheese (3 cups) adds richness and melts beautifully into the meat.
Sub: Monterey Jack or colby jack work well too. - For moisture, milk (½ cup) keeps the meatloaf tender.
Sub: Use almond milk for a dairy-free option. - To deepen the flavor, Worcestershire sauce (4 tsp) adds savory complexity.
Sub: Soy sauce or coconut aminos make great alternatives. - Finally, Lori’s Meatloaf Seasoning Packet provides the perfect balance of spices.
Topping Ingredients
- To start the topping, tomato sauce (8 oz) creates a juicy, flavorful layer. Sub: Crushed tomatoes can be used instead.
- Next, apple cider vinegar (4 tbsp) brings a tangy brightness. Sub: Try white vinegar or lemon juice.
- Lastly, ketchup (2 tbsp) balances the tang with just the right sweetness. Sub: For a smoky twist, use BBQ sauce.
See recipe card for full recipe.
How to Cook the Best Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: First, prep the pan – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat oven to 350°F.
Then, mix the meatloaf – In a large bowl, combine beef, eggs, oats, onion, bell pepper, cheese, milk, Worcestershire, and seasoning packet. Now, mix with hands until well combined.
Step 2: Next, shape it – Form into an 8” x 10” rectangle (about 1 ½” thick) on the baking sheet, leaving edges slightly raised.
Step 3: Now, make the topping – In a small bowl, stir together tomato sauce, vinegar, and ketchup.
Step 4: Lastly, top and bake – Spread topping inside raised edges and bake uncovered 45–60 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F.
Best Meatloaf Recipe Variations
- For a kid-friendly version, omit the bell pepper and finely mince the onion for a smoother texture.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.
- For a lighter option, swap the beef for lean ground turkey and reduce the cooking time slightly.
Different Ways to Enjoy this Recipe
- To start, serve it hot with green beans and mashed potatoes for a classic Southern dinner.
- Then, slice it cold for an old-fashioned meatloaf sandwich with mayo and lettuce.
- Finally, top it with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast.
Tips for Success
- First, finely chop the veggies so the texture stays smooth for kids.
- Next, avoid over mixing the meat to help keep it tender.
- Finally, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing so the juices can redistribute.
How to Store & Reheat Best Meatloaf Recipe
- First, store the best meatloaf recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped slices or the entire loaf for up to 3 months. For best results, wrap in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- When ready to enjoy again, you can thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or reheat directly from frozen.
- To reheat from frozen in the oven: Place the meatloaf (slices or whole loaf) on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F for 20–30 minutes for slices or 45–60 minutes for a whole loaf, until heated through.
- To reheat from frozen in the microwave: Use the defrost setting first, then heat in 30-second bursts until warmed through.
Cooking With Lori Quality Seasonings
When I created these flavorful seasoning packets, I knew from the beginning they had to be made with only the best ingredients. That’s exactly why they contain no anti-caking agents, no MSG, and no preservatives—just pure seasonings and herbs. Moreover, this is extremely important to me because I want every meal to be as clean and wholesome as possible. With that in mind, my seasoning packets allow you to enjoy bold flavors without the unnecessary additives often found in store-bought mixes. As a result, every blend—including this Best Meatloaf Recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best in your dishes. Ultimately, they make home cooking easier, healthier, and more delicious. Use the code WELCOME15 to receive 15% off your first order!
FAQ
Yes, prepare and refrigerate (uncooked) up to 24 hours ahead, then bake as directed.
Yes, just use gluten-free oats.
Don’t skip resting time before slicing.
More Delicious Recipes to Try
Other Cooking With Lori Recipes
Southern Best Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 4 eggs
- 1 ½ C quick oats - uncooked
- ½ C onion finely chopped
- ½ C red bell pepper - Optional and finely chopped
- 3 C shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ C milk can sub almond milk
- 4 t Worcestershire sauce
- Lori's Meatloaf seasoning packet
Topping Ingredients
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 4 T apple cider vinegar
- 2 T ketchup
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine beef, eggs, oats, onion, bell pepper, cheese, milk, Worcestershire, and seasoning packet. Mix with hands until well combined.
- Form into an 8” x 10” rectangle (about 1 ½” thick) on the baking sheet, leaving edges slightly raised.
- In a small bowl, stir together tomato sauce, vinegar, and ketchup.
- Spread topping inside raised edges and bake uncovered 45–60 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F.
