First, let me just say thank you for being here. Sharing these hearty, old-fashioned recipes makes me feel connected not only to tradition but also to all of you who bring them to life in your own kitchens. Today, we’re talking about a true family table favorite: Easy Amish Meatloaf.
This dish is as comforting as it gets—juicy, tender ground beef mixed with finely chopped veggies, topped with a glossy sweet-and-tangy ketchup glaze. It’s the kind of meal that makes the house smell incredible and brings everyone running to the table.
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Why You’ll Love Amish Meatloaf
This recipe keeps things simple but delivers big on flavor. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet satisfying enough to serve guests.
Reasons to Love It
- Classic & nostalgic – it tastes like home.
- Moist & tender – thanks to milk, eggs, and just the right amount of breadcrumbs.
- Family-friendly – even picky eaters love it!
- Budget-friendly – made with simple, affordable pantry staples.
Taste Profile
Savory, juicy beef with the sweetness of onion and bell pepper tucked inside, topped with a glaze that’s equal parts sweet, tangy, and sticky. Every bite is balanced and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon (or your hands—best tool for meatloaf!)
- Small bowl for glaze
- Whisk
Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins
- Breadcrumbs → Crushed saltines or oats for a softer texture.
- Bell pepper → Try grated carrot or celery for variety.
- Worcestershire sauce → Soy sauce or steak sauce also work.
- Glaze upgrade → Add a dash of hot sauce or BBQ sauce for extra depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
- Mix meatloaf base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix gently until combined (don’t overwork it).
- Shape loaf: Press mixture into the prepared pan, forming an even loaf.
- Make glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest & serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing so it stays juicy.
What to Serve with Amish Meatloaf
- Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy
- Roasted green beans or buttered corn
- Homemade dinner rolls
- A crisp garden salad
Tips for Success
- Mix gently: Overmixing makes meatloaf dense. Use your hands and stop when everything is just combined.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer for perfect results.
- Let it rest: A short rest keeps the juices inside the loaf instead of on your cutting board.
- Double batch: Make two at once—one for tonight, one for the freezer!
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly (whole or sliced) and freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: In the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, or microwave single slices.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the loaf and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
What kind of beef is best?
80/20 ground beef works well for juiciness. Too lean and it may dry out.
Can I make it without breadcrumbs?
Yes—use oats, cracker crumbs, or even cooked rice as a binder.
Conclusion
This Easy Amish Meatloaf is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Moist, flavorful, and topped with that irresistible glaze, it’s a dish the whole family will ask for again and again.
If you loved this recipe, you’ll also enjoy:
- Slow Cooker Cabbage and Smoked Sausage
- Classic Chicken and Rice Bake
- Homemade Italian Tomato Sauce
Join the Fun!
Tried this recipe? Share your photos on Pinterest and leave a review below—I love seeing your kitchen creations!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 8 servings)
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
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