Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy & Delicious
Published: 13 Feb 2026
Ever struggled with a meatloaf that turns out dry or bland? The Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe can change that. This classic dish blends ground beef, breadcrumbs, and eggs to create a loaf that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, even beginner cooks can achieve a perfect result.
From mixing and shaping to baking and glazing, every step matters. We’ll also cover tips for serving, storage, and adding slight flavor variations to keep it exciting. Follow this guide, and you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal that your family will love every time.
If you’re looking for a hearty dinner, check out our Longhorn Steakhouse Cowboy Pork Chop Recipe for step-by-step guidance and tips.
What Is the Joy of Cooking Meatloaf?
The Joy of Cooking Meatloaf comes from the classic Joy of Cooking cookbook, first published in 1931 by Irma S. Rombauer. The book became a trusted guide for home cooks, and its meatloaf recipe reflects that simple, practical style. It uses ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onions, and seasonings, then shaped into a loaf and baked until tender.
What makes this version stand out is its balance. The breadcrumbs and milk help keep the meat moist, while the eggs bind everything together for structure. Over the years, many families have adapted the recipe to their taste, but the core method from the cookbook has remained steady. It’s a classic comfort dish built on basic ingredients and reliable technique.
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf
You’ll love this meatloaf recipe because it focuses on the basics that make meatloaf truly good: moisture, flavor, and texture. Using ground beef combined with breadcrumbs soaked in milk helps keep the loaf tender instead of dry. Eggs hold everything together, while simple seasonings and onions add depth without making it complicated. The result is a classic comfort meal that feels homemade and satisfying.
It’s also easy to prepare, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. The method follows a clear mix, shape, and bake process that home cooks have trusted for years. Leftovers store well in the fridge and can be reheated for another meal the next day. Whether served fresh from the oven or sliced for sandwiches, it’s the kind of dish families come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Joy of Cooking Meatloaf, it’s important to gather all the key ingredients first. Each one plays a role in keeping the meatloaf moist, flavorful, and easy to slice.
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ¼ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
Equipment Needed
To make the Joy of Cooking Meatloaf, you don’t need fancy tools—just a few basic kitchen items that make preparation simple and efficient. Having the right equipment helps ensure the meatloaf cooks evenly and comes out perfectly shaped.
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (standard 9×5 inch works best)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife (for chopping onions and other ingredients)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for mixing)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering while baking)
- Meat thermometer (to check doneness)
How to make Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe: Step-by-Step
Making the Joy of Cooking Meatloaf is simple when you follow clear steps. Each part of the process—from prepping ingredients to baking—helps keep the meatloaf moist, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Soak the Breadcrumbs
In a large bowl, sprinkle the breadcrumbs with milk. Let them soak until soft; this helps the meatloaf stay tender and juicy.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Chop onions and garlic finely, then add them to the soaked breadcrumbs. Mix in salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings for flavor.
Step 4: Combine Meat and Eggs
Add the ground beef and beaten eggs to the mixture. Blend gently with a spoon or your hands. Avoid overmixing, or the meatloaf may turn dense.
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it evenly to form a compact loaf for even baking.
Step 6: Add Glaze
Spread a layer of ketchup or a ketchup-Worcestershire sauce mix on top. This will caramelize while baking, adding flavor and a nice finish.
Step 7: Bake
Place in the oven uncovered and bake for 55–65 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 8: Rest and Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows juices to settle, keeping the slices moist when serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Joy of Cooking Meatloaf is best enjoyed with classic sides that complement its savory, rich flavor. Traditional pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted or sautéed green beans, and a fresh tossed salad. These sides balance the meatloaf’s hearty texture while keeping the meal simple and satisfying.
For casual meals or leftovers, the meatloaf can be sliced for sandwiches or wraps, making it versatile beyond dinner. Adding a dinner roll or a slice of crusty bread can help soak up the glaze and juices. A light garnish, like parsley, can enhance presentation without altering the taste.
Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Every Time
Making a perfect meatloaf is all about balance and technique. A few simple tips can ensure it stays moist, flavorful, and easy to slice every time you bake it.
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra juiciness.
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk before mixing to keep the loaf tender.
- Don’t overmix the meat; handle it gently to avoid a dense texture.
- Preheat the oven and use a greased or lined loaf pan for even cooking.
- Spread a glaze of ketchup or ketchup-Worcestershire mix on top to caramelize.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to lock in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Storage, Reheating
Leftover Joy of Cooking Meatloaf can be stored safely to enjoy later without losing flavor or moisture. Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. It will stay good for 3–4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, meatloaf can be frozen for up to 2–3 months. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, but covering it loosely helps retain moisture and prevents drying out.
Nutrition Information
Knowing the nutrition of your meatloaf helps you plan balanced meals and portion sizes. The Joy of Cooking Meatloaf combines protein, fats, and carbohydrates from its main ingredients, giving a hearty and satisfying dish.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
| Calories | 350–400 kcal |
| Protein | 22–25 g |
| Total Fat | 18–20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7–8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20–22 g |
| Fiber | 1–2 g |
| Sugar | 4–5 g |
| Sodium | 600–650 mg |
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve covered everything about the Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to serving suggestions, flavor variations, and storage tips. Following these steps will help you make a tender, flavorful meatloaf every single time.
I highly recommend giving this recipe a try, guys. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep, and the leftovers make great sandwiches too. So grab your loaf pan, mix up the ingredients, and enjoy a classic comfort meal with your friends and family. Keep learning and experimenting with flavors, buddies!
FAQs about Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe
Here are some common asked questions about Joy of Cooking Meatloaf recipe:
The secret is keeping it moist and balanced. Soak breadcrumbs in milk before mixing, and don’t overwork the meat. A mix of ground beef and pork adds juiciness, and a flavorful glaze on top gives a tasty finish.
Adding a bit of grated onion or sautéed garlic can really enhance flavor. Some cooks also add Worcestershire sauce or a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. These small upgrades make a big difference in taste.
Joy of Cooking is famous for its classic, reliable recipes. Popular dishes include meatloaf, roast chicken, chocolate cake, and homemade bread. Each recipe is easy to follow and trusted by home cooks for generations.
The basic formula combines ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and a liquid like milk. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs are added for flavor. Mix gently, shape into a loaf, and bake until cooked through.
The four main ingredients are ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk. These form the base and help the loaf hold together while staying moist. Additional seasonings and toppings can be added for taste.
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
