Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe

Joanna Gaines’ signature meatloaf is a classic, comforting dish made with ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, cheddar cheese, and a savory tomato-based glaze—a hearty recipe perfect for family dinners.

Joanna Gaines’ meatloaf recipe from Magnolia Table is the definition of cozy, feel-good comfort food. Made with a hearty mix of ground beef, shredded cheese, and simple pantry staples, this meatloaf is topped with a tangy-sweet ketchup glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.

It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table—no fuss, just classic flavors done right. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or Sunday dinner, this recipe delivers every time.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Family-Friendly Flavor – The combination of cheese, spices, and a sweet ketchup glaze makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Simple Pantry Ingredients – No fancy items required—just everyday staples you already have on hand.
• Perfectly Moist Texture – Baked to juicy perfection without being greasy or dry.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for meal prep or freezing for busy weeknights.
• Classic Comfort Food – Brings that nostalgic, home-cooked flavor straight to your dinner table.

Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Ingredients

• Salted butter – Adds richness and helps bind flavors smoothly
• Large eggs, beaten – Binds ingredients and adds moisture and structure
• Finely chopped onion – Provides mild sweetness and savory depth
• Tomato sauce – Adds tangy, rich tomato flavor and moisture
• Ground beef (85% lean) – Tender, flavorful base for hearty meatloaf
• Crushed saltines – Lightens texture and absorbs moisture evenly
• Grated Cheddar cheese – Sharp, creamy addition for cheesy flavor
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds savory umami and depth of flavor
• Kosher salt – Enhances overall taste and balances seasoning
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds mild heat and earthy notes
• Ketchup – Sweet, tangy glaze that finishes the meatloaf.

How To Make Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe

Step One: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175°C). In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step Two: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten eggs, cooked onions, tomato sauce, crushed saltines, grated Cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and ketchup. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step Three: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe Tips

• Use lean ground beef (around 85% lean) for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
• Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
• Use crushed saltines for a light texture that helps bind without making the meatloaf dense.
• Customize the glaze by adding a little brown sugar or mustard for extra flavor depth.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel for 1–2 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispier texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.

What To Serve With Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe

Joanna Gaines Meatloaf pairs perfectly with classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. For a fresh touch, serve it alongside a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to balance the hearty flavors. A drizzle of rich gravy or tangy ketchup complements the meatloaf beautifully, making every bite satisfying and well-rounded.

Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe Faqs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready for the best texture and flavor.

Can I substitute ground beef with other meats? Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used, but adjust cooking times as needed and expect a slightly different texture and flavor.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

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Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe

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Author: Laurie Fleming

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 1 hour hr

Total Time: 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8 Servings

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Description

This recipe is adapted from the Joanna Gaines Cookbook, all credit goes to her, it's a great meatloaf that I wanted to share with my readers.

Ingredients 

• 2 tablespoons butter, salted
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef, 85% lean
• 4 ounces saltines, crushed
• 6 ounces Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons ketchup

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten eggs, cooked onions, tomato sauce, crushed saltines, grated Cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and ketchup. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
• Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Equipment

• Baking Pan
• Cooking Spray

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving