13 Creative Takes on Classic Meatloaf

Meatloaf doesn’t have to mean just one thing. These days, there are so many ways to shake up the traditional version and turn it into something new. You’ll find everything from cheesy, bacon-loaded takes to Italian-inspired versions topped with marinara. Some are shaped into muffins for easy serving, while others are baked in casseroles with mashed potatoes layered right in.

Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Four individual mini meatloaves topped with ketchup glaze are arranged on a white plate, with sides of roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts visible in the background. — Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

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These mini loaves cook up quickly with crispy edges and juicy centers. They’re ideal when you want all the meatloaf flavor without waiting an hour. Serve them with mashed potatoes or slice them up for sandwiches. The air fryer gives them a golden crust that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Meatloaf wrapped in bacon and glazed with ketchup on a white platter. — Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This one tastes just like a loaded burger, packed into a loaf pan. Bacon and cheese are layered inside and on top for maximum flavor. It’s rich, hearty, and goes well with anything from fries to coleslaw. A drizzle of ketchup and mustard finishes it off like a diner classic.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

A casserole dish with meatloaf and parsley on a cutting board. — Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Chicken replaces beef in this twist, with mozzarella and marinara baked right in. It has all the flavors of a chicken parm dinner but in sliceable form. A crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture. Serve it with spaghetti or garlic bread for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

Sliced meatloaf with creamy gravy served on a patterned plate, accompanied by mashed potatoes and garnished with fresh rosemary. — Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

This version leans into rich, savory comfort with a velvety onion sauce poured over thick slices. The gravy brings moisture and depth to every bite. It’s a great choice for a cozy night in. Mashed potatoes are basically required on the side.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

These muffin-sized meatloaves are great for meal prep or quick dinners. They cook faster than a traditional loaf and come out tender every time. Each one is topped with a dollop of sauce that caramelizes as it bakes. Kids tend to love the fun shape, too.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Meatloaf Recipe

This is a no-fuss, classic version that hits all the right notes. It’s seasoned just right, holds together beautifully, and delivers that familiar, satisfying flavor. A ketchup glaze adds a sweet-savory finish. Great with green beans or corn on the cob.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Recipe

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Three slices of meatloaf with ketchup glaze served on a plate with mashed potatoes and baby carrots. — Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Inspired by the restaurant favorite, this one’s packed with cheddar and topped with a sticky glaze. Ritz crackers give it a buttery crumb that’s different from the usual. It’s tender, slightly sweet, and incredibly comforting. Great with mac and cheese or fried okra.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

This plant-based option is made with lentils, veggies, and warm spices. It holds together nicely and slices cleanly, just like a traditional loaf. A tomato glaze on top adds a burst of tang. Even meat lovers will be surprised by how good it is.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

A meatloaf wrapped in green leek leaves with a melted cheese filling visible in the center. — Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

This meatloaf swaps out breadcrumbs for a low-carb alternative and adds in melty cheese and leeks. The result is savory, creamy, and satisfying without the extra starch. It’s an easy way to switch things up. Serve with roasted vegetables for balance.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish. — Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one is all about going big with bold flavors and plenty of seasoning. It’s juicy inside, crispy on the outside, and topped with a generous layer of glaze. The mix-ins take it up a notch from the everyday. It’s the kind of dish that gets asked for again and again.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Sliced meatloaf topped with glaze, garnished with parsley, served in a white dish with a metal serving spoon. — Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Turkey makes this version a little lighter, but the air fryer keeps it juicy. The outside gets a satisfying crust without drying out. Great for weeknights when time is short. Pair with a salad or steamed vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Italian Meatloaf

Sliced stuffed cabbage rolls baked in tomato sauce in a round pink dish, surrounded by green bell pepper, breadcrumbs, and an egg on a white surface. — Italian Meatloaf. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Italian herbs, garlic, and parmesan run through the loaf, giving it a totally different feel. It’s finished with marinara and mozzarella on top for a cheesy finish. It goes well with pasta or a Caesar salad. This one brings a different kind of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatloaf

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

A close-up of a serving of shepherd’s pie being lifted, showing layers of ground meat, mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and bacon bits. — Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This layered casserole combines meatloaf, mashed potatoes, cheese, and crispy onions. It’s rich and packed with flavor, almost like a loaded baked potato meets meatloaf. It feeds a crowd and reheats like a dream. Serve it straight from the dish with a spoon.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole