Classic 5‑Ingredient Sheet Pan Meatloaf
Juicy inside, sweet ketchup glaze on top, and baked just the way Mama made it.
Introduction
Meatloaf is one of those timeless comfort foods that brings everyone to the table. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and endlessly adaptable. This simplified version uses just five pantry‑friendly ingredients, yet delivers all the flavor and warmth of the classic dish. Baking it on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan ensures even cooking, a caramelized glaze, and quick cleanup — perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Whether you grew up with meatloaf as a Sunday staple or you’re discovering it for the first time, this recipe captures the essence of home cooking: simple, satisfying, and made with love.
Ingredients
1½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 packet onion soup mix (or seasoning blend)
½ cup ketchup, divided
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
Mix Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, soup mix, and half the ketchup.
Mix gently until just combined — don’t overwork the meat, as this can make the loaf dense.
Shape & Bake
Form mixture into a loaf shape directly on the sheet pan.
Bake for 25 minutes to allow the meat to set and juices to develop.
Add Glaze
Spread remaining ketchup evenly over the top.
Return to oven and bake another 15–20 minutes, until cooked through (internal temp 160°F).
Rest & Serve
Let meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Servings: 6
Tips for Success
Use lean ground beef for less grease and a cleaner texture.
Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats if preferred.
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Double the recipe and freeze half for easy future meals.
For a sweeter glaze, mix ketchup with a little brown sugar or honey.
1#Fun Variations
Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the mix.
BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup glaze with smoky barbecue sauce.
Mini Loaves: Shape into smaller loaves or patties for faster cooking.
Mediterranean Style: Mix in feta, oregano, and parsley instead of soup mix.
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze.
Storytelling Element
This meatloaf is more than just dinner — it’s a tradition. The sweet ketchup glaze bubbling in the oven, the savory aroma filling the kitchen, and the first juicy slice on the plate all bring back memories of family meals around the table. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug on a plate, reminding us that sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones we cherish most.
Conclusion
With just five ingredients, this Sheet Pan Meatloaf proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Juicy, flavorful, and topped with a nostalgic glaze, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a weeknight staple.