There’s just something about Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf that feels like home. It’s hearty, flavorful, and simple — the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and your plate with pure comfort.
The first time I made this, I wanted to recreate the meatloaf my grandma used to serve on Sundays. Hers was never fancy — just perfectly seasoned beef, breadcrumbs, and a sweet ketchup glaze that caramelized in the oven. When I pulled mine out, golden brown and bubbling, it smelled exactly like her kitchen. Now it sits right next to my Loaded Cornbread Casserole and Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes as one of my most-loved family recipes.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine milk and breadcrumbs. Let them sit for 5 minutes to soak.
- Add ground beef, eggs, chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan, shaping it evenly. Bake for 45 minutes.
- While it bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard. After 45 minutes, spread glaze on top and bake an additional 20–25 minutes.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf
This recipe has everything you want in a true Southern meatloaf — juicy texture, classic seasonings, and a rich glaze that bakes to perfection. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and perfect for leftovers.
If you love comforting dinners like my Cajun Potato Soup or Crack Chicken & Rice Soup, this meatloaf belongs on your weeknight rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional but classic)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
If you love hearty, comforting flavors, you’ll also enjoy my French Onion Ground Beef — it’s another rich, family-style favorite.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine milk and breadcrumbs. Let them sit for 5 minutes to soak. This keeps your meatloaf moist and tender.
Step 3: Add the Meat and Flavor
Add ground beef, eggs, chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently with your hands until just combined — don’t overmix.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan, shaping it evenly. Bake for 45 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
Meanwhile, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard. After 45 minutes, spread the glaze over the top and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until caramelized and glossy.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, homestyle flavor.
If you enjoy traditional Southern dishes, this one’s every bit as cozy as my Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup.
Tips for the Perfect Southern Meatloaf
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk: Keeps the meatloaf soft and juicy.
- Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
- Rest before slicing: Keeps juices from running out.
- Add veggies finely chopped: They add flavor and moisture without chunks.
These same simple tricks are the kind that make my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole foolproof every time.
What to Serve with Meatloaf
- Mashed potatoes – Classic creamy side.
- Green beans – Add crunch and color.
- Mac and cheese – For full Southern comfort.
- Cornbread – Try my Loaded Cornbread Casserole for an unbeatable combo.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave gently.
Like my Christmas Bread Recipe, this meatloaf reheats beautifully and makes amazing leftovers.
Flavor Variations
- BBQ Meatloaf: Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
- Cheddar-Stuffed: Add a layer of shredded cheese in the center before baking.
- Turkey Meatloaf: Use ground turkey and add a touch more milk for tenderness.
- Spicy Southern: Add cayenne or diced jalapeños for a kick.
If you love flavor variety like this, you’ll also enjoy my Cajun Seafood Alfredo — same Southern flair with a creamy spin.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use oats instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes! Rolled oats make a great substitute and give a heartier texture.
2. How do I keep it from falling apart?
Use enough binder (milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs) and let it rest before slicing.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — just bake in two pans or increase the cook time by about 15 minutes.
4. What’s the best ground meat mix?
80/20 ground beef gives the best balance of moisture and flavor.
The Final Bite
This Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf is comfort food done right — moist, flavorful, and topped with that irresistible sweet-tangy glaze. It’s a taste of Southern tradition that never fails to bring smiles around the table.
Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for the perfect hearty dinner that feels like home.