Looking for a meatloaf recipe like mom makes? I bet this meatloaf recipe with ketchup hits the spot! It’s easy to make a perfect way to use ground beef. It’s just like mom used to make. Let me show you how to make this meatloaf recipe with ketchup.

Do you have a recipe that just reminds you of when you were a kid? A recipe that if you make it or smell that recipe it brings you right back to your childhood? For me it has to be my mom’s meatloaf. It’s such a classic dinner recipe and one that I was always associate with my parents.

And it’s not because my mom made a super elaborate meatloaf recipe or used a secret ingredient. It was actually pretty – well, basic. And I love it that way!

Oh and it was covered in ketchup. Maybe that’s why my childhood self loved it so much.

What is a meatloaf recipe with ketchup?

This is a classic recipe made with ground beef, spices, a binder and ketchup. It is baked in the oven and then cut into slices. It is an easy dinner time recipe that is perfectly paired with your favorite side dish.

Classic meatloaf with ketchup ingredients

I love this recipe because the ingredients are simple and easy to find. You can also use various substitutions for ingredients and still have a tasty dinner. To make this meatloaf you will need:

• Oil
• Onion
• Bell pepper
• Ground beef
• Crackers of breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Worcestershire
• Ketchup
• Brown sugar

Oil – You can use any oil that you’d like for this meatloaf recipe. I prefer olive oil or canola, but feel free to use any you have on hand.

Bell pepper – This is an optional vegetable to add but it gives the meatloaf a great depth of flavor. It’s also an easy way to sneak veggies into dinner.

Ground beef – You can use ground beef, pork or even turkey for this recipe. I do suggest using one with a decent fat content to help it stay juicy when baking. A ground beef with a 70/30 fat ratio would be perfect.

Crackers or breadcrumbs – You can use finely ground Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs. This is just a preference thing and whatever you have on hand. Both do the same thing.

Do you know the one recipe that never gets any complaints at the Grant house? That’s right – meatloaf with ketchup on top! I use the same recipe as my momma’s meatloaf, add some mashed potatoes, a veggie and everyone one is happy.

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How to make meatloaf with ketchup

Once you have grabbed all your ingredients, you will also need to grab:

• skillet
• mixing bowl
• spatula
• bread pan

Step 1 Saute the onion and bell pepper

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a medium skillet, add the oil, onion and bell pepper. Saute until onion is translucent and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

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Step 2 Make the meatloaf mix

In a large bowl, mix together your remaining ingredients for the meatloaf including your peppers and onions. Do not add the ketchup, brown sugar or extra Worcestershire sauce to the mix.

Step 3 Bake

In a lightly greased loaf pan, add your meat mixture. Cook in the oven for 30 minutes.

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Step 4 Make the ketchup topping

While your meatloaf is in the oven, mix together your sauce for the top – ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire. Set aside.

Step 5 Add ketchup and bake again

After 30 minutes of that, remove your meatloaf from the oven. Top with your Sauce evenly. Please see meatloaf back in the oven for another 30 minutes or until the inside of your loaf reaches the temperature of at least 155°F.

Remove, slice and enjoy.

A few notes about this easy meatloaf recipe –

Can I use different spices?

Yup! Feel free to add your own spices to the mix.

What is a good side dish for meatloaf?

You can add any sides you’d like! Our favorites are mashed potatoes and carrots!

Do I need to cover the pan?

No, bake the meatloaf UNCOVERED.

How long do I bake 2 pounds of meatloaf?

If you want to double the recipe you need to cook the meatloaf for an additional 30 minutes. OR until a meat thermometer reads 155 degrees.

Side dish suggestions

Most side dishes pair well with mom’s meatloaf. A few of my favorites are:

• Quick honey roasted carrots
• Loaded broccoli salad
• Instant Pot mac and cheese
• Classic coleslaw
• Best potato salad recipe
• Instant Pot mashed potatoes

How to store leftover meatloaf

Place any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container and put it in the fridge. You can use a Ziplock bag or Tupperware. It will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze meatloaf with ketchup?

You can! Make the meatloaf according to the directions below. Allow to cool completely. Wrap in parchment paper and place in a Ziplock bag, making sure to remove all the air. It will keep for up to 3 months, if stored properly.

If you like this easy dinner recipe, be sure to check out:

• Homemade bacon mac and cheese
• Spaghetti and meatballs
• Peppers and onions

Love this easy meatloaf recipe? Be sure to pin it for later!