Name: Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20); 3 slices white sandwich bread, torn; 3/4 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup ketchup (for meat mixture); 6 slices bacon; 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon dry mustard

Growing up, meatloaf was always that one dish that brought everyone to the dinner table without complaint. But it wasn’t until I stumbled upon the Pioneer Woman’s version that I truly fell in love with it. Her recipe brings together a perfect balance of savory ground beef, a touch of sweetness from a tangy glaze, and a texture that’s moist but never mushy. The smell of it baking fills the kitchen with a warmth that just screams comfort food.

I’ve made this Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf more times than I can count, and every single time, it disappears within minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing meals ahead, or just in need of a hearty classic, this dish fits the bill. The bacon-wrapped top crisps up beautifully in the oven, while the ketchup-based glaze caramelizes into a rich, sticky finish. It’s everything you want meatloaf to be—and more.

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf

It’s packed with rich, beefy flavor and stays perfectly juicy.
The glaze is a game-changer: sweet, tangy, and a little smoky.
It’s topped with bacon, which crisps as it bakes.
This recipe makes excellent leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any).
It’s a true family favorite—both nostalgic and indulgent.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For best results, I recommend using 80/20 ground beef. This ratio gives the meatloaf enough fat to stay moist and flavorful without becoming greasy. If you go leaner, like 90/10, the texture might end up too dry. On the flip side, fattier beef can make the loaf fall apart or feel overly rich. If you’re feeling adventurous, combining beef with a little pork or veal can add even more depth.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t eat beef or just want to try something new, you can easily swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken—just be sure to keep the mixture moist with a little extra onion or even a splash of milk. For a gluten-free option, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed rice crackers. Not into bacon? You can skip it altogether or top the loaf with thinly sliced onions for a lighter twist.

Ingredients for this Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf

Ground beef (80/20): The heart of the meatloaf. This ratio keeps it juicy and flavorful without being overly greasy.

Bread slices (white sandwich bread, torn): Acts as the binder to hold everything together while keeping it soft and tender.

Milk: Softens the bread and keeps the loaf moist from the inside out.

Eggs: Essential for structure, helping the loaf maintain its shape once sliced.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that enhances the beef’s flavor without overpowering it.

Salt and black pepper: Seasoning essentials that balance and elevate all the ingredients.

Chopped parsley: Offers a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness.

Onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness, moisture, and texture.

Garlic (minced): Infuses the meatloaf with aromatic depth.

Ketchup (for glaze and meat mixture): Sweet and tangy, it’s used both inside the mix and on top for that signature glossy finish.

Brown sugar (for glaze): Balances the tanginess of the ketchup with a rich sweetness.

Dry mustard (for glaze): Adds a slight kick to the glaze, bringing depth without being spicy.

Bacon strips: Wrapped on top, they crisp up beautifully and add an irresistible smoky flavor.

Step 1: Soak the Bread

Tear the white bread into small pieces and place it in a bowl. Pour the milk over it and let it soak for about 5 minutes. This creates a panade, which ensures the meatloaf is tender and never dry.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely diced onions in a little oil or butter until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic in the last minute. Let them cool before adding to the meat mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked bread, sautéed onions and garlic, ground beef, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, parsley, and a bit of ketchup. Mix gently using your hands—over-mixing can make the loaf tough.

Step 4: Shape and Place in Pan

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet or place it in a loaf pan. Make sure it’s evenly formed so it cooks uniformly. Leave a bit of space around the loaf for air circulation if using a baking sheet.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and dry mustard. This sweet-tangy glaze will caramelize as the loaf bakes, creating a beautiful finish.

Step 6: Top with Bacon and Glaze

Lay the strips of bacon over the top of the loaf, tucking the ends underneath. Generously brush the glaze over the bacon-covered loaf, making sure to coat the top evenly.

Step 7: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Baste with more glaze halfway through for extra flavor.

Step 8: Rest and Slice

Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents it from falling apart.

How Long to Prepare the Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf

Preparing this meatloaf is straightforward, but a little time and attention to detail make all the difference. From start to finish, expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including prep, cooking, and resting time.

Prep Time (20–25 minutes): This includes soaking the bread, chopping and sautéing the onions and garlic, mixing the ingredients, shaping the loaf, and layering on the glaze and bacon.

Cook Time (55–65 minutes): The loaf bakes until perfectly cooked and the bacon crisped on top. Resting the meatloaf after baking for 10 minutes ensures juicy slices.

Tips for Perfect Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf

Don’t overmix: Gentle mixing keeps the meatloaf tender and prevents it from becoming dense.
Use fresh breadcrumbs: Torn white bread soaked in milk creates better texture than dry crumbs.
Line your pan with foil or parchment: It makes cleanup easier and helps the loaf retain its shape.
Use a meat thermometer: Cook to an internal temp of 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety without overcooking.
Rest before slicing: This crucial step keeps the juices from running out and drying your loaf.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the resting time: This leads to dry meatloaf with juices escaping when sliced.
Overpacking the meat: Compressing the meat too tightly can make it dense and tough.
Using very lean beef: Without enough fat, the meatloaf can dry out quickly.
Forgetting to sauté the onions: Raw onions can overpower the loaf and remain crunchy.
Applying the glaze too early or too late: Glazing too early can burn; too late and it won’t caramelize.

What to Serve With Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf?

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A classic pairing—silky smooth mashed potatoes balance the rich flavor of the meatloaf.

2. Roasted Green Beans

Crisp-tender green beans roasted with olive oil and garlic bring freshness to your plate.

3. Macaroni and Cheese

Comfort food on top of comfort food. A creamy mac and cheese side makes the meal indulgent.

4. Buttered Corn

Simple and sweet, corn adds a pop of color and balances the savoriness of the loaf.

5. Garden Salad with Vinaigrette

For a lighter option, a fresh salad helps cut the richness and adds crisp texture.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It’s great cold or gently reheated in the microwave or oven.

Freezer: Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This keeps the meat moist without drying it out.

Estimated Nutrition

Calories: ~380 per slice
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 580mg
Cholesterol: 105mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the loaf and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?

Look for juices running clear and a firm texture, but a thermometer is more reliable for perfect results.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, though it may take slightly longer and the edges won’t crisp as much as a freeform loaf.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Just add a little more moisture (milk or grated onion) to keep it from drying out.

How do I keep the meatloaf from falling apart?

Use eggs and soaked bread for binding, don’t skip the resting time, and avoid overmixing.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Pioneer Woman Meatloaf is everything a comfort food classic should be—savory, juicy, flavorful, and topped with a glaze that ties it all together. Whether it’s your first time making meatloaf or you’re looking to upgrade a family favorite, this recipe delivers every single time. With a few simple ingredients and thoughtful steps, you’ll have a dinner that’s guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings to the table.