Easy, cheesy homemade meatloaf recipe with simple ingredients and a sweet tangy glaze, tender, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Easy Homemade Meatloaf Recipe

This easy homemade meatloaf recipe is tender, flavorful, and perfectly saucy. Made with simple pantry ingredients, plenty of melty cheddar cheese, and a sweet tangy glaze, it’s a comforting dinner the whole family will love. It comes together quickly, bakes beautifully in one loaf pan, and slices like a dream, perfect for weeknights or Sunday dinners. Find more ideas in 👉Oven Bake and Grilled Meals recipes.

FAQ’s and Tips

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a cheddar blend, and even parmesan cheese, all taste great.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

You can swap in ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork. If using turkey, reduce the milk slightly since turkey is leaner.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the meatloaf, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze meatloaf?

Yes. Wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. In sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf.

Don’t overmix. Mix the beef just until combined to keep the texture tender.
Use fresh onion. Finely chopped onion adds moisture and flavor—no need to sauté it first.
Shred your own cheese. It melts better than pre-shredded.
Let it rest. A 10-minute rest keeps the slices from falling apart.
Adjust moisture if needed. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of milk.

Ingredients for Easy Homemade Meatloaf Recipe

ground beef
egg 🥚
onion, finely chopped(or powder) 🧅
garlic powder 🧄
milk
dried bread crumbs
dried thyme or oregano
smoked paprika
shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend, or parmesan cheese) 🧀
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the full amounts of the ingredients and the sauce recipe, as well as the instructions see the recipe attached. Download or print it and even use online with the cook mode. IT’s Simple! 😉

How To bake Easy Homemade Meatloaf Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Meatloaf Base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder and oregano, paprika, milk, bread crumbs, shredded cheese, salt, and black pepper.
Mix gently with clean hands or a fork until everything is evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape the Meatloaf. Transfer the mixture to the prepared greased or lined loaf pan. Press lightly to shape it into an even loaf.
Make the Sauce/Glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, prepared mustard, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
Add the First Layer of Glaze. Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Make the Sauce/Glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, prepared mustard, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).

Add the First Layer of Glaze. Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze.
Finish Baking. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Bake for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze.

Finish Baking. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Rest and Slice. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut.

Rest and Slice. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut.

If you enjoyed this cheesy homemade meatloaf, be sure to explore more comforting dinner ideas on the blog. From Oven Bake and Grilled Meals, easy weeknight meals to classic family favorites, there’s always something delicious to inspire your next recipe. I’ll link a few of my go-to dinner dishes below so you can keep your meal planning simple and flavorful.

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