This homemade Meatloaf is incredibly juicy, packed with flavor, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully. It’s the ultimate comfort food – easy to make and satisfying.

Everyone needs a great meatloaf recipe that they can count on, and this one delivers every time. Follow my tips below for the most flavorful, moist, and tender meatloaf you’ll ever make.

The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe

The first time I told my kids we’d be having meatloaf for dinner, their facial expressions were hilarious – I guess they had seen too many TV shows poking fun at meatloaf as being dry or boring. But they quickly changed their tunes when they tried my meatloaf! Now, my whole family gets excited when meatloaf is on the menu. It’s no wonder this meatloaf has been so popular on my blog for years.

Ground beef mixed with onion, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, fresh parsley, and seasonings produces an irresistibly tender and juicy meatloaf, and this recipe has the best sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes in the oven and adds amazing flavor to every bite.

My family loves Meatloaf paired with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and a side of Baked Asparagus, or Roasted Broccoli, but it pairs well with just about anything.

Ingredients for Meatloaf

Creating delicious meatloaf starts with gathering a handful of key ingredients that bring this dish to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

Lean Ground Beef – Use 80% or 85% lean meat. Just like with making hamburgers, the fat content will make the meatloaf moist and juicy. Avoid super lean ground beef. You could also substitute half of the ground beef with turkey, pork, or Italian sausage.
Onions and Garlic – Aromatics that add flavor to the meatloaf.
Breadcrumbs and Eggs – Act as binders to hold the meatloaf together. You could substitute Panko breadcrumbs with Italian breadcrumbs or even gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Ketchup – Adds flavor and tenderizes the ground beef. You could substitute with 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce if needed.
Milk – Hydrates the breadcrumbs to add moisture and also helps tenderize the beef for a softer and juicier meatloaf.
Seasonings – Fresh parsley adds freshness to the meatloaf. The Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhance the natural flavors of the beef.

For the Glaze:

Ketchup – The main component for a tangy, sweet glaze.
White vinegar – Adds a nice acidity to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Brown sugar – Adds a rich, caramelized sweetness to the glaze.
Garlic powder and onion powder – For that extra depth of flavor.

How to Make Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial for even cooking, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. If you skip this step, your onions may end up soft on the outside while the inside remains undercooked. Trust me, we don’t want that!

Step 2: Prepare the Onions

Next, let’s prepare those onions! Carefully peel off the outer layers and chop about an inch from the top. Use a sharp knife to hollow out the centers, creating a nice pocket for that savory filling. Take your time here—gentle hands make for perfect onions. If you’re unsure about breaking the skins, use a spoon to help dig out the insides without applying too much pressure.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and half of that BBQ sauce. This is where the magic happens! Those spices and sauce combine to create a savory flavor bomb that will make your heart sing. Make sure to mix well, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Stuff the Onions

Now it’s time to stuff those onions! Generously pack the meat mixture into each one, pressing down slightly to fit as much filling as possible. Don’t be shy here—these Onion Bombs thrive on a hearty portion of meat! The more, the merrier when it comes to flavor!

Step 5: Wrap with Bacon

What’s better than beef? Bacon! Wrap each stuffed onion tightly with a slice of bacon, letting it spiral down the sides. You can secure it with toothpicks if needed, but I usually find they hold together well on their own. Just ensure the bacon fully encases the filling for that delightful crispiness!

Step 6: Bake

Place the onions on a lined baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes. Halfway through, be sure to brush on the remaining BBQ sauce to enhance the flavor and keep things juicy. The smell that fills your kitchen during this time? Pure heaven. You’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!

Tips for Success

Choose onions that are firm and heavy for their size; they’ll hold up better during cooking.
Don’t rush the hollowing process! A delicate touch prevents tearing.
For an added flavor punch, mix in some chopped herbs like parsley or chives with your filling.
For crispy bacon, consider broiling the last few minutes for that extra crunch!
Let the Onion Bombs cool slightly before serving; they’ll be easier to enjoy!

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A large one lined with parchment paper is essential. A cast-iron skillet could work too!
Sharp knife: For peeling and hollowing out onions. A sturdy vegetable peeler can help, but a knife is best.
Mixing bowl: Any size will do. A good-sized bowl ensures ample space for mixing the meat filling!
Toothpicks: Optional, if you want added security for the bacon wrap.

Variations

Cheesy Onion Bombs: Add your favorite cheese like cheddar or pepper jack inside the onion for a melty surprise.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of chili powder or diced jalapeños into the beef mixture for a fiery twist.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap ground beef with black beans or lentils and add sautéed veggies for a hearty vegetarian option.
BBQ Ranch Style: Blend ranch seasoning into the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor, perfect for ranch lovers!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the beef mixture for a fragrant touch that elevates the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Side salad: Pair with a crisp garden salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw balance the savory flavors beautifully.
Mashed potatoes: Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious juices.
Drinks: Consider iced tea or a light lemonade to complement the meal.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs for an inviting touch that adds color!

FAQs about Onion Bombs

As you dive into the world of Onion Bombs, you might have a few questions swirling in your mind. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help clear up any confusion!

Can I make Onion Bombs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed onions a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?

No worries! You can use other sauces like teriyaki or even a homemade marinade. Just keep in mind, the flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!

Can I freeze cooked Onion Bombs?

Yes, you can! Once they’re fully cooked and cooled, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results, ensuring they’re warmed all the way through.

Are there any vegetarian options for Onion Bombs?

Definitely! You can swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or even a mixture of grains and veggies. Just make sure to season them well for maximum flavor!

How do I know when the Onion Bombs are done?

Onion Bombs are done when they’ve cooked for about 45-50 minutes, and the internal temperature of the beef reaches 165°F. The onions should be tender and caramelized, offering a delightful aroma!

Final Thoughts

As you whip up these Onion Bombs, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The sizzling sound of bacon wrapping around flavorful meat fills the air with warmth, and before you know it, your family will gather, drawn by the irresistible aroma. This recipe is more than just food; it’s a celebration of flavors, memories, and togetherness. So, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, let these Onion Bombs light up your table and bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces. Happy cooking!

The Best Meatloaf Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe