Meatloaf is one of those classic comfort foods that everyone loves. Its savory, tender texture and rich flavors make it a satisfying meal for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Whether you like it packed with vegetables, glazed with a sweet and tangy topping, or paired with mashed potatoes, there’s a meatloaf recipe for everyone. These 15 top-rated meatloaf recipes will elevate your dinner game and leave you with hearty leftovers to enjoy. Get ready to find your new go-to meatloaf recipe with this collection of mouthwatering options!
1. Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze
There’s nothing like the simplicity and comfort of a traditional meatloaf, and this classic version with a tangy ketchup glaze is a crowd-pleaser. Ground beef is mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasonings, then topped with a rich ketchup glaze for a satisfying, flavorful finish. This meatloaf is perfect when served with mashed potatoes and a side of green beans or peas for the ultimate comfort meal.
Get the recipe: Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze
2. Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
If you’re a fan of bacon, then this bacon-wrapped meatloaf is the ultimate indulgence. The crispy, smoky bacon enhances the flavors of the beef while keeping the meatloaf moist and tender. The bacon crisps up nicely on the outside, creating a flavorful crust that contrasts perfectly with the savory interior. Serve this with roasted potatoes and a side salad for a well-rounded dinner. Get the recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
3. Turkey Meatloaf with Vegetables
For a lighter twist on the classic, turkey meatloaf is a great option. This version uses ground turkey, making it lower in fat but still incredibly moist and flavorful. Packed with finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, this meatloaf is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients. Top it off with a tangy tomato glaze and serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Get the recipe: Turkey Meatloaf with Vegetables
4. Italian Meatloaf with Marinara Sauce
Take your meatloaf to the next level with Italian flavors. This Italian-inspired meatloaf is packed with ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Once baked, it’s topped with a generous layer of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The result is a savory, cheesy meatloaf that’s perfect for serving with pasta or a side of garlic bread.
Get the recipe: Italian Meatloaf with Marinara Sauce
5. BBQ Meatloaf
For a sweet and smoky twist, try BBQ meatloaf. Ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork is combined with breadcrumbs and seasonings, then glazed with a tangy barbecue sauce before baking. The BBQ glaze adds a sweet and slightly smoky flavor that complements the savory meat perfectly. This meatloaf pairs well with coleslaw and cornbread for a true Southern-inspired meal. Get the recipe: BBQ Meatloaf
6. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf
Who doesn’t love a gooey, cheesy surprise inside their meatloaf? This cheese-stuffed version is a game-changer. The meatloaf is stuffed with melty cheese like cheddar or mozzarella, which oozes out when you slice into it. The combination of the savory meat and the rich, creamy cheese is absolutely irresistible. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for balance. Get the recipe: Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf
7. Meatloaf Muffins
For a fun and portion-controlled twist on the classic, try making meatloaf muffins. By baking the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins, you get individual servings that are easy to customize and serve. These mini meatloafs cook faster than a traditional loaf, making them a perfect weeknight dinner option. Top each muffin with a dollop of ketchup or barbecue sauce before serving for added flavor.
Get the recipe: Meatloaf Muffins
8. Asian-Inspired Meatloaf
Bring some bold flavors to your meatloaf with this Asian-inspired version. Ground beef or pork is combined with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and green onions for a savory, umami-packed meatloaf. It’s topped with a glaze made of hoisin sauce and sriracha, giving it a sweet and spicy kick. Serve with steamed rice and sautéed bok choy for a complete, flavorful meal. Get the recipe: Asian-Inspired Meatloaf
9. Mushroom Meatloaf
Mushrooms add depth of flavor and moisture to meatloaf, and this mushroom meatloaf is the perfect example. Fresh mushrooms are finely chopped and sautéed before being added to the meat mixture. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist. Top with a rich mushroom gravy or a simple glaze for a comforting, savory meal. Get the recipe: Mushroom Meatloaf
10. Cajun Meatloaf
For a spicy, flavorful twist, try Cajun meatloaf. Ground beef or a combination of meats is seasoned with Cajun spices like paprika, cayenne, thyme, and garlic, bringing a bold, zesty flavor to the dish. The meatloaf is moist and spicy, with just the right amount of heat. Pair it with a side of cornbread or mashed potatoes to cool things down. Get the recipe: Cajun Meatloaf
11. Veggie-Loaded Meatloaf
Packed with healthy vegetables like carrots, onions, bell peppers, and zucchini, this veggie-loaded meatloaf is both nutritious and delicious. The vegetables add moisture to the meatloaf and infuse it with extra flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra servings of vegetables, making it perfect for families looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste. Get the recipe: Veggie-Loaded Meatloaf
12. Lamb Meatloaf with Mint and Garlic
For a unique twist, try making lamb meatloaf. Ground lamb brings a rich, slightly gamey flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh flavors of mint, garlic, and rosemary. This meatloaf is aromatic and flavorful, with a tender texture that’s sure to impress. Serve with roasted root vegetables or a side of couscous for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Get the recipe: Lamb Meatloaf with Mint and Garlic
13. Keto Meatloaf (Low-Carb)
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, this keto meatloaf is a great option. Made with ground beef, almond flour, and eggs, it’s free from breadcrumbs and other carb-heavy ingredients. The result is a flavorful, satisfying meatloaf that fits perfectly into a low-carb diet. Top it with sugar-free ketchup or a simple mustard glaze for added flavor. Get the recipe: Keto Meatloaf (Low-Carb)
14. Taco Meatloaf
Take your love for tacos to the next level with taco meatloaf. This version uses ground beef seasoned with taco seasoning and topped with shredded cheese, creating a deliciously spicy and cheesy dish. You can even add some diced jalapeños or green chilies for an extra kick. Serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and a fresh salad for a fun, Tex-Mex-inspired meal. Get the recipe: Taco Meatloaf
15. Sweet Potato Meatloaf
Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and extra moisture to meatloaf, making this version a unique and healthy twist on the classic. The sweet potatoes are mashed and mixed into the meatloaf mixture, creating a tender, flavorful loaf that’s both savory and slightly sweet. The combination of sweet potatoes and lean ground beef is not only delicious but also provides a nice balance of nutrients.
Get the recipe: Sweet Potato Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a versatile and comforting dish that can be adapted to suit all tastes, whether you prefer a classic version, a healthier alternative, or a unique twist with bold flavors. From bacon-wrapped meatloaf to veggie-loaded options and international-inspired variations, these 15 top-rated meatloaf recipes are sure to become new favorites in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these meatloaf recipes are guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Enjoy!
