10 Quick and Easy Meatloaf Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Meatloaf is a classic comfort dish that's surprisingly easy to whip up, and these easy weeknight recipes prove it! With a mix of simple ingredients and quick cooking techniques, you can have a delicious and hearty meal on the table in under an hour. Say goodbye to the struggle of what to make for dinner—these meatloaf recipes have got you covered for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Savory Classic Meatloaf With A Flavorful Glaze

This classic meatloaf is a comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners. The meatloaf is perfectly baked, showcasing a rich, glossy glaze on top. It’s served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant green beans, making for a well-rounded meal.

The meatloaf itself is made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a mix of spices, all combined to create a hearty texture. The glaze, often made from ketchup and brown sugar, adds a sweet and tangy finish that complements the savory meat. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top not only enhances the look but also adds a hint of freshness.

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. It’s a simple recipe that can be whipped up in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
4. In a separate bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar. Spread half of this mixture over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45 minutes. After 30 minutes, spread the remaining glaze on top.
6. Once cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.

Zesty Italian Meatloaf With Herbs And Cheese

This Zesty Italian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish. It combines ground meat with herbs, cheese, and a tangy sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The image showcases a beautifully baked meatloaf topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh herbs. It’s served alongside a rich marinara sauce and slices of crusty bread, making it a hearty and satisfying option for dinner.

The key to this recipe is using fresh herbs like basil and parsley, which add a burst of flavor. The cheese not only enhances the taste but also gives a creamy texture that complements the meat. Pairing it with marinara sauce elevates the dish, making it feel special without much extra effort.

To make this meatloaf, gather your ingredients and follow the simple steps below. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Spread half of the marinara sauce over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and top with mozzarella cheese and the remaining marinara sauce.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra marinara sauce and slices of bread.

Sweet And Spicy Bbq Meatloaf For A Family Feast

Sweet and spicy BBQ meatloaf is a fantastic dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. This meatloaf is topped with a rich, tangy barbecue sauce that adds a delightful kick. It’s perfect for family feasts and can be made in under an hour, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

The image shows a beautifully glazed meatloaf, sliced to reveal its tender interior. It’s served alongside fresh corn on the cob and a refreshing coleslaw, creating a colorful and appetizing meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a family favorite.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this delicious meatloaf. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress everyone at the dinner table!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of BBQ sauce with brown sugar. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining BBQ sauce on the side.

Mouthwatering Turkey Meatloaf With Spinach And Feta

This turkey meatloaf is not just any ordinary dish; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The image shows a beautifully baked meatloaf, sliced to reveal a delightful filling of spinach and feta cheese. The vibrant green spinach and creamy feta contrast perfectly with the golden-brown crust. Fresh herbs sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness.

On the side, you can see crunchy carrots and cucumber slices, making this meal not only tasty but also visually appealing. A creamy dip sits in a bowl, ready to complement the meatloaf. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, bringing comfort and satisfaction in under an hour.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf That Will Delight Everyone

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, and this cheesy bacon version takes it to a whole new level. Imagine a savory loaf packed with flavors that everyone will love. The image shows a beautifully cooked meatloaf, wrapped in crispy bacon and oozing with melted cheese. It's served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

This dish is not just about taste; it’s also about the joy of cooking something that brings everyone together. The combination of bacon and cheese adds a delightful twist to the traditional meatloaf, ensuring that even picky eaters will enjoy it. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under an hour!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1 egg
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra bacon slices for wrapping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Wrap the loaf with extra bacon slices, tucking the ends underneath.
5. Bake for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and enjoy!

Asian-Inspired Meatloaf With Soy Sauce Glaze

This Asian-inspired meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The meatloaf is topped with a savory soy sauce glaze that adds a rich flavor. Served alongside fluffy rice and vibrant broccoli, it makes for a colorful and satisfying meal.

The meatloaf itself is moist and tender, thanks to the combination of ground meat and flavorful seasonings. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a glossy finish that’s hard to resist. Pairing it with steamed rice and fresh vegetables rounds out the meal perfectly.

Ready to whip up this delicious dish? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, green onions, egg, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
4. In a small bowl, mix ketchup with a splash of soy sauce. Spread this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with rice and steamed broccoli on the side.

Herbed Lamb Meatloaf With A Mediterranean Flair

This herbed lamb meatloaf brings a delightful Mediterranean twist to a classic dish. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal and is packed with flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and tender lamb creates a dish that feels special yet is easy to prepare.

The meatloaf is served with a refreshing yogurt sauce, which adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Pair it with warm pita bread for a complete meal that everyone will love. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make this dish not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious herbed lamb meatloaf!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried dill

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, mint, rosemary, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, cumin, and milk. Mix until well combined.
2. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Drizzle olive oil on top.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
4. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, and dill. Season with salt to taste.
5. Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the yogurt sauce and warm pita bread.

Cranberry-Glazed Meatloaf For A Festive Touch

Cranberry-glazed meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The vibrant red glaze adds a festive touch, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The meatloaf is juicy and flavorful, enhanced by the sweetness of the cranberry sauce. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, adding color and nutrition to your plate.

To make this dish, you'll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, and, of course, cranberry sauce. The preparation is straightforward, and you can have it ready in under an hour. Serve it with a side of your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Spread half of the cranberry sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the remaining cranberry sauce on top. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve with your favorite vegetables.

Maple-Glazed Meatloaf For A Sweet Surprise

Meatloaf is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. This maple-glazed version adds a delightful twist, combining savory and sweet flavors. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the meatloaf a shiny finish that looks as good as it tastes.

In the image, you can see a perfectly cooked meatloaf, sliced to reveal its tender interior. It's garnished with fresh herbs, adding a pop of color. On the side, there are roasted sweet potatoes and green beans, making for a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup additional ketchup for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, maple syrup, egg, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
4. Spread the additional ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides!

Spicy Chipotle Meatloaf For A Bold Flavor

Spicy Chipotle Meatloaf is a fantastic twist on a classic dish. This meatloaf packs a punch with its bold flavors, making it perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. The combination of chipotle peppers and spices gives it a smoky kick that elevates the traditional meatloaf experience.

In the image, you can see a beautifully glazed meatloaf, sliced to reveal its tender interior. It’s garnished with fresh cilantro, which adds a pop of color and freshness. The side of avocado and lime complements the dish perfectly, providing a creamy texture and a zesty finish. This meal is not just about taste; it’s visually appealing too!

This recipe is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, taking less than an hour from start to finish. You can serve it with rice or a simple salad for a complete meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Avocado slices, for serving
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread ketchup on top for a nice glaze.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with avocado slices and lime wedges.