Ina Garten Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that is flavorful, tender and easy to make at home. This Ina Garten Meatloaf Recipe uses simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, garlic, herbs and a rich tomato-based topping.
It bakes to perfection with a moist inside and slightly caramelized glaze on top. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal, this recipe is satisfying and full of flavor.
In this blog, I will show you how to make Ina Garten Meatloaf step by step. I will also share tips, serving ideas and answer common questions. The ingredients for Ina Garten Meatloaf are easy to find in any kitchen.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first tried Ina Garten’s meatloaf recipe on a Sunday dinner. The smell of onions, garlic and herbs filled my kitchen.
When I sliced the meatloaf, it was moist and flavorful, not dry at all. The tomato glaze on top added a sweet and tangy finish. My family loved it, and it became a favorite recipe instantly.
I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it tastes like a restaurant-quality meal. It’s a perfect recipe for beginners and anyone who enjoys classic comfort food.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Meatloaf
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 mins
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 400 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven
- Small bowl for glaze
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Meatloaf
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for glaze)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until soft.
3. Prepare the Onion and Garlic
Finely chop onion and mince garlic. Sauté lightly in a pan with a little oil for extra flavor if desired.
4. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed onion, garlic, eggs, salt, pepper, thyme and oregano.
5. Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press gently to shape evenly without packing too tightly.
6. Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar and Dijon mustard until smooth. This will give a sweet and tangy topping.
7. Spread the Glaze
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf before baking. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
8. Bake the Meatloaf
Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, checking that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Add Remaining Glaze
Spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a caramelized top.
10. Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the meatloaf cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh herbs if available for better aroma and taste.
- Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Adjust glaze sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Add a small amount of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for depth of flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
Serving Suggestions
Ina Garten Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad. A scoop of gravy or extra glaze enhances the flavor. Serve with dinner rolls or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Best Sides To Serve With
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted carrots or green beans
- Side salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed broccoli
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Wrap tightly in foil before freezing for up to 2 months.
- Thaw frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat with a little extra glaze or sauce to maintain moisture.
FAQs About Ina Garten Meatloaf
1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the meat mixture and shape it in the pan a day before. Cover and refrigerate until baking.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works. It may be slightly leaner, so adding a small amount of olive oil keeps it moist.
3. Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Yes, shape the meatloaf, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake after thawing.
4. Can I make mini meatloaves?
Yes, divide the mixture into muffin tins or small loaf pans for individual servings. Reduce baking time slightly.
5. How do I keep the meatloaf moist?
Do not overmix meat, use soaked breadcrumbs and add glaze. Let the meatloaf rest after baking to retain juices.
Conclusion
This Ina Garten Meatloaf Recipe is a classic, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Now you know how to make Ina Garten Meatloaf with simple ingredients and easy steps.
The combination of tender meat, flavorful herbs and sweet-tangy glaze makes it irresistible. Use the ingredients for Ina Garten Meatloaf listed above, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meatloaf.
It’s perfect for special occasions, cozy dinners or anytime you want a hearty, flavorful meal. Your family and friends will love it and it’s sure to become a favorite recipe in your kitchen.
Ina Garten Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup ketchup for glaze
- 2 tbsp brown sugar for glaze
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for glaze
Instructions
. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Soak the Breadcrumbs
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until soft.
Prepare the Onion and Garlic
- Finely chop onion and mince garlic. Sauté lightly in a pan with a little oil for extra flavor if desired.
Mix Meatloaf Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed onion, garlic, eggs, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press gently to shape evenly without packing too tightly.
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This will give a sweet and tangy topping.
Spread the Glaze
- Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf before baking. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
- Bake the Meatloaf
- Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, checking that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Add Remaining Glaze
- Spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a caramelized top.
Cool Slightly and Serve
- Let the meatloaf cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs if available for better aroma and taste.
- Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Adjust glaze sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Add a small amount of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for depth of flavor.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
