16 Meatloaf Recipes That Make Comfort Food Exciting Again

Meatloaf is the kind of classic comfort food that never really goes out of style, especially when it gets a modern upgrade. This roundup brings together hearty, flavorful meatloaf recipes that work for busy weeknights, family dinners, and cozy comfort meals. From traditional favorites to creative twists and lighter options, these recipes prove that meatloaf can be just as exciting and satisfying as any dinner on the table.

Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Three slices of vegan meatloaf with a tomato-based glaze, served on a plain white plate.

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Lentils form a sturdy and satisfying base. Vegetables and seasonings add depth and texture. The loaf slices cleanly once cooled slightly. Serve with sauce or gravy on the side.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Stuffed Meatloaf

A plate with two slices of meatloaf topped with gravy, served alongside a portion of mashed potatoes and garnished with chopped parsley. — Stuffed Meatloaf. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

This meatloaf hides a flavorful filling in the center. The outer layer stays moist while baking. Each slice reveals a distinct middle layer. It makes serving feel extra special.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Meatloaf

Taco Meatloaf

Taco-style seasoning gives this meatloaf bold flavor. The texture stays tender and cohesive. It pairs well with simple toppings or sauces. Leftovers reheat well.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This version leans into familiar, comforting flavors. The loaf stays soft and evenly cooked. A classic glaze tops it off nicely. Serve with traditional sides.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

A sliced meatloaf with gravy is served on a decorative plate next to mashed potatoes, garnished with rosemary and herbs. — Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Savory meatloaf is paired with a smooth onion gravy. The sauce adds richness and moisture. Spoon generously over each slice. Serve hot for best results.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

A glazed meatloaf wrapped in bacon on a white plate. — Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Bacon and cheese are mixed throughout the loaf. The flavors mirror a classic cheeseburger. The meatloaf stays juicy as it bakes. Slice thick for serving.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Smaller loaves cook quickly and evenly. The air fryer gives the outside light browning. Each portion is easy to serve. Great for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze

Sliced meatloaf arranged on a wooden cutting board, with a serving fork and bowls of food nearby on a wooden table. — Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Smoke adds deep flavor to this meatloaf. A barbecue-style glaze coats the top. The inside stays tender and well-seasoned. Slice once rested.
Get the Recipe: Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze

Italian Meatloaf

A round baking dish filled with sliced stuffed cabbage rolls in tomato sauce, garnished with fresh herbs, sits on a light countertop near green bell peppers and kitchen utensils. — Italian Meatloaf. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Italian herbs and seasonings run through the loaf. Cheese adds richness and structure. The flavor pairs well with marinara sauce. Serve with pasta or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatloaf

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Ground chicken creates a lighter texture. Cheese and sauce echo chicken parmesan flavors. The loaf stays moist while baking. Slice and serve with extra sauce.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

Cheese adds richness throughout the loaf. Leeks bring mild onion flavor. The texture stays firm and sliceable. Serve warm from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

Meatloaf Burgers: New Spin on Old Fashioned Comfort Food!

Meatloaf mixture is shaped into patties. Cooking them flat speeds things up. They fit perfectly on buns. Top just like a burger.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Burgers: New Spin on Old Fashioned Comfort Food!

Bomb Meatloaf

Sliced meatloaf with ketchup glaze on a white plate, garnished with parsley, next to a metal spatula and an orange cloth. — Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This meatloaf is packed with bold seasoning. The texture stays juicy and tender. Each slice holds together well. Serve with simple sides.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

A spatula holds a square slice of casserole topped with melted cheese, bacon, and onions, showing layers of mashed potatoes and ground meat. — Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Meatloaf and potatoes bake together in one dish. Layers soak up flavor as they cook. The top becomes lightly golden. Slice into squares to serve.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Vegan Meatloaf

A slice of brown cake with light-colored frosting on an orange plate, with a fork resting on the plate, on a turquoise surface. — Vegan Meatloaf. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Plant-based ingredients create a sturdy loaf. Seasonings add depth and balance. It slices cleanly after resting. Serve with gravy or sauce.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Meatloaf

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

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

Turkey cooks evenly in the air fryer. The loaf stays moist with a lightly browned exterior. Cooking time is shorter than the oven. Let rest before slicing.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf