Meatballs & Meatloaf

Beef And Pork Meatloaf

Name: Beef And Pork Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (115g) grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1/4 cup (60g) ketchup; 2 tbsp (30g) brown sugar; 1 tsp (5g) salt; 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley

By Liana Ironside · June 19, 2026 · Meatballs & Meatloaf

Prep20 min

Cook45 min

Total65 min

Serves6

Welcome to my kitchen, where comfort food reigns supreme. Today, I'm excited to share with you my recipe for Beef And Pork Meatloaf, a dish that never fails to impress. Growing up, my family would often gather around the dinner table to enjoy a warm, homemade meal, and this meatloaf was always a staple.

I remember the first time I made this recipe, I was a bit skeptical about combining beef and pork, but the result was nothing short of amazing. The beef added a richness and depth of flavor, while the pork provided a tenderness and juiciness that was hard to resist.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it's easy to prepare and can be ready in under an hour. It's also a great option for special occasions, as it's sure to impress your guests with its flavorful and satisfying taste.

So, what makes this recipe so special? For starters, the combination of beef and pork creates a unique flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting. The addition of onions, garlic, and cheese adds a depth of flavor that's hard to resist, and the ketchup-based glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish.

Whether you're a meatloaf aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to try, this Beef And Pork Meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, let's get started and see what makes this recipe so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The combination of beef and pork creates a unique flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting.
The addition of onions, garlic, and cheese adds a depth of flavor that's hard to resist.
The ketchup-based glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it's easy to prepare and can be ready in under an hour.
It's also a great option for special occasions, as it's sure to impress your guests with its flavorful and satisfying taste.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great meatloaf is in the combination of ingredients and the cooking technique. By using a mix of beef and pork, we create a meatloaf that's both flavorful and tender. The addition of onions, garlic, and cheese adds a depth of flavor that's hard to resist, and the ketchup-based glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish.

The cooking technique is also important, as we want to ensure that the meatloaf is cooked to the right temperature to prevent foodborne illness. By using an instant-read thermometer, we can ensure that the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Another important aspect of this recipe is the resting time. After the meatloaf is cooked, it's essential to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf even more tender and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great meatloaf, the ingredients are crucial. You'll want to use high-quality ground beef and pork, as well as fresh onions, garlic, and cheese. Don't forget to pick up some ketchup and brown sugar for the glaze, and make sure you have some breadcrumbs on hand to help bind the mixture together.

Here's a list of the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious Beef And Pork Meatloaf:

1 lb (450g) ground beefUse high-quality ground beef with a fat content of at least 20% for the best flavor and texture.
1/2 lb (225g) ground porkGround pork adds a tenderness and juiciness to the meatloaf that's hard to resist.
1 large onion, finely choppedOnions add a depth of flavor and texture to the meatloaf, so don't skip this step.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a key ingredient in many meatloaf recipes, and this one is no exception.
1 cup (115g) grated cheddar cheeseCheddar cheese adds a rich, creamy flavor to the meatloaf that's hard to resist.
1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbsBreadcrumbs help bind the mixture together and add texture to the meatloaf.
1 eggThe egg helps bind the mixture together and adds moisture to the meatloaf.
1/4 cup (60g) ketchupKetchup is a key ingredient in the glaze, and it adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meatloaf.
2 tbsp (30g) brown sugarBrown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the glaze that's hard to resist.
1 tsp (5g) saltSalt enhances the flavor of the meatloaf and helps bring out the other ingredients.
1/2 tsp (2g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a subtle kick to the meatloaf and enhances the other flavors.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsleyParsley adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the meatloaf that's hard to resist.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlMeat thermometerInstant-read thermometer9x5-inch loaf pan Cutting boardChef's knife

How to Make Beef And Pork Meatloaf

1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3
Transfer the mixture to a 9x5-inch loaf pan and smooth the top.
4
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar until smooth.
5
Brush the ketchup glaze all over the top of the meatloaf.
6
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
8
Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
9
Serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.
10
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Expert Tips

Make sure to handle the meat mixture gently, as overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Don't overcrowd the loaf pan, as this can cause the meatloaf to steam instead of brown.
Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to retain its tenderness.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the recipe your own.
Consider making individual mini meatloaves for a fun and easy appetizer or snack.
Leftover meatloaf can be used to make sandwiches, wraps, or even meatloaf hash.
To add some extra flavor to the meatloaf, try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the meat mixture, which can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Not letting the meatloaf rest long enough, which can cause it to dry out.
Not using a meat thermometer, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked meatloaf.
Overcrowding the loaf pan, which can cause the meatloaf to steam instead of brown.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the meatloaf.
Not experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients, which can make the recipe more interesting and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

Try adding some diced bacon or ham to the meat mixture for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, for a unique flavor profile.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the meat mixture for a savory flavor.
Use a combination of beef and pork, or try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or gluten-free, for a lighter texture.
Try making individual mini meatloaves for a fun and easy appetizer or snack.
Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

What to Serve With Beef And Pork Meatloaf

This Beef And Pork Meatloaf is perfect for serving with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or over egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Some other ideas for serving this meatloaf include:

Mashed potatoesRoasted vegetablesGreen saladCrusty breadEgg noodlesGravy

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, simply wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.

To reheat, simply thaw the meatloaf overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Alternatively, you can reheat the meatloaf in the microwave by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and heating it for about 30-45 seconds, or until heated through.

It's also a good idea to label and date the leftovers, so you can easily keep track of how long they've been stored.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store leftover meatloaf?

How do I reheat leftover meatloaf?

To reheat, simply thaw the meatloaf overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the meatloaf in the microwave by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and heating it for about 30-45 seconds, or until heated through.

Can I make individual mini meatloaves?

Yes, you can make individual mini meatloaves by dividing the meat mixture into smaller portions and shaping them into mini loaves. Simply bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

What is the best way to cook a meatloaf?

The best way to cook a meatloaf is to bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can also cook it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, but baking is the most common method.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can use different types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, for a leaner option. You can also use a combination of beef and pork, or try using ground lamb or veal for a more exotic flavor.

What is the best way to prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

The best way to prevent the meatloaf from drying out is to not overcook it. Make sure to cook it to the recommended internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. You can also add some moisture to the meat mixture, such as chopped onions or bell peppers, to help keep it juicy.

Can I freeze the meatloaf before cooking it?

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before cooking it. Simply shape the meat mixture into a loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to cook it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through.

What is the best way to serve the meatloaf?

The best way to serve the meatloaf is with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or over egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatloaf ahead of time. Simply prepare the meat mixture, shape it into a loaf, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 2 months, then thaw and bake it when you're ready.

The Full Recipe

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