Meatloaf is a real comfort food, isn’t it? I love how simple it is to put together for a hearty family dinner. Today, I’m sharing two fantastic meatloaf recipes that are perfect for your meal rotation, making dinner ideas easy and delicious.
Whether you want a cheesy surprise in your main course or a classic flavor booster for your weeknight meals, I have you covered. These easy meatloaf options will make your dinner planning a breeze.
Jump to Recipe:
Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe
This meatloaf has a gooey mozzarella center that everyone will love. It’s a comforting meal that’s easier to make than you might think.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Fresh Mozzarella: Use a block of mozzarella and cut it into thick sticks. This melts nicely without making the meatloaf too watery.
- Ground Beef Choice: I like using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef works too, but might need a bit more moisture.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz block fresh mozzarella, cut into sticks
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 mins🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 2: Stuff with Mozzarella
Form half of the meat mixture into a rectangle on a baking sheet. Arrange the mozzarella sticks down the center. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, shaping it into a loaf and sealing the edges well so the cheese stays inside.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
Bake the meatloaf for 60-70 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving so the juices settle.
📝 Final Note
A simple tomato-based glaze (like ketchup mixed with a little brown sugar) can be spread on top during the last 15 minutes of baking for extra flavor.
Easy Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf Dinner
This meatloaf gets amazing flavor from a simple packet of onion soup mix. It’s a classic family favorite that’s so quick to prepare for dinner.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Dry Onion Soup Mix: This is your secret ingredient! It adds a lot of onion and herb flavor without needing to chop many ingredients. Just one packet makes a big difference.
- Binder for Texture: The egg and breadcrumbs work together to hold the meatloaf shape and keep it moist. Don’t skip these for the best results.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup water or milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for topping, optional)
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 5 mins🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, dry onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, and water or milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 2: Form and Bake
Shape the mixture into an oblong loaf on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. If you like, spread ketchup or a simple glaze over the top for added flavor and a nice crust.
Step 3: Cook Until Done
Bake for about 55-65 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
📝 Final Note
This meatloaf is wonderful with mashed potatoes and green beans. Leftovers make great sandwiches the next day!