Ina Garten’s Meatloaf (Easy Recipe)

Ina Garten’s approach to meatloaf is all about making comfort food easy, flavorful, and foolproof. This meatloaf recipe takes the classic dish and simplifies it with straightforward ingredients and simple steps, while still delivering a tender, juicy loaf full of rich flavor. Using ground beef combined with fresh herbs, aromatic onions, and a tangy glaze, Ina’s meatloaf strikes the perfect balance between homestyle goodness and elegant cooking. It’s a dish that will satisfy the whole family without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The key to Ina’s recipe is taking the time to develop flavor through seasoning and a luscious tomato-based glaze that caramelizes on top during baking. It’s the kind of recipe you can rely on for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, and it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Whether you’re new to meatloaf or a longtime fan, Ina Garten’s recipe offers a delicious, no-fuss way to enjoy this timeless classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients – No complicated steps or hard-to-find items.
2. Moist and Tender – The perfect balance of meat and seasoning keeps it juicy.
3. Flavorful Glaze – A sweet and tangy topping adds the perfect finishing touch.
4. Family Friendly – Everyone loves this classic, easy-to-love comfort food.
5. Great Leftovers – Ideal for sandwiches and quick meals the next day.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Eggs
• Fresh parsley
• Panko or breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Brown sugar (for glaze)
• Mustard (for glaze)

Variations

• Mix Meats: Combine ground beef with ground pork or veal for richer flavor.
• Add Veggies: Finely grated carrots or zucchini add moisture and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate smoked paprika, cayenne, or hot sauce for heat.
• Cheesy Center: Add a layer of cheese inside the meatloaf before baking.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check other ingredients.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a skillet, heat some olive oil and sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until soft and translucent. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooled onion mixture, eggs, parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Bake for 40 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. Spread evenly over the partially baked meatloaf.

Step 6: Finish Baking

Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overmix the meat; handle gently for tenderness.
• Use fresh herbs to brighten the flavor.
• Let the meatloaf rest after baking to lock in juices.
• Reserve some glaze to brush on again before serving for extra shine.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

How to Serve

Serve slices of meatloaf hot with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted root vegetables. It’s also delicious sliced thin and served on crusty bread as a sandwich with extra glaze or mustard.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use lean ground beef?

Yes, but avoid very lean to keep it juicy.

2. How do I know when it’s cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; 160°F is the safe temperature.

3. Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes, assemble the meatloaf a day before and bake when ready.

4. What if I don’t have panko?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work well too.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a non-dairy milk alternative and skip cheese additions.

6. How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?

Don’t overmix and use enough binder like eggs and breadcrumbs.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, grated veggies add moisture and nutrition.

8. Can I make individual meatloaf muffins?

Absolutely, bake in a muffin tin for single servings.

9. Is the glaze necessary?

It adds great flavor and texture but can be omitted.

10. What can I serve on the side?

Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, salad, or green beans.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Easy Meatloaf is a timeless recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying, flavorful meal everyone will love. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. With a tender interior, savory glaze, and comforting flavors, this meatloaf truly earns its place as a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy a classic dish made effortlessly delicious.

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