Meatloaf is a comforting classic that’s customizable and satisfying any night of the week. Whether you keep it traditional, bake it with bold seasonings, build it into a casserole, or adapt it for the air fryer, there’s a version for every appetite. This collection covers styles from Southern and Italian to vegan and BBQ, plus fun twists like taco‑inspired or stuffed meatloaf. Each idea brings rich flavor and simple prep to your table, making meatloaf a go‑to dinner any time.

Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Southern Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This version brings rich Southern flavor with savory seasoning and a tangy glaze on top. The loaf stays tender and moist inside. It bakes to a golden crust that holds in juices. Great with mashed potatoes or greens.
Get the Recipe: Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf Casserole

Meatloaf Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

All the flavors of meatloaf layered in a casserole with breadcrumbs, veggies, and sauce. It bakes evenly with a soft, scoopable texture. Easy to serve straight from the pan. A crowd‑pleasing dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Casserole

Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze

Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

This meatloaf gets smoked low and slow for deep, smoky flavor. A sticky BBQ glaze caramelizes on top. Each slice holds rich, savory goodness. Perfect for backyard cookouts or cozy lunches.
Get the Recipe: Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze

Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Mini Meatloaves line up on a platter with a glaze on top.
Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Small individual meatloaves cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer. The outside crisps while the inside stays moist. They’re great for portion control or kids’ dinners. Serve with your favorite sauce.
Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Taco Meatloaf

Two slices of meatloaf topped with tomato sauce on a white plate, garnished with a sprig of cilantro.
Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Seasoned with taco spices, this meatloaf brings Tex‑Mex vibes to classic comfort food. Add bits of pepper and cheese for extra punch. Top with salsa or sour cream. A flavorful spin that’s great with rice or tortillas.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

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

Ground chicken forms the base with Parmesan and Italian herbs mixed in. Topped with marinara and melted cheese. The profile echoes classic chicken Parmesan. A lighter yet rich meatloaf option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

Meatloaf with green leek around it.
Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

This meatloaf skips breadcrumbs and adds cheese and leeks for flavor and texture. It stays moist and rich without the carbs. Herbs and seasoning deepen the profile. Great with roasted veggies.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Meatloaf and potatoes bake together in one pan for a hearty, stick‑to‑your‑ribs meal. Bold seasoning and a rich sauce tie the proteins and starches together. Easy to prep ahead. A filling dinner for family nights.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Lean ground turkey cooks quickly in the air fryer without drying out. The edges crisp slightly while the inside stays tender. Season well for full flavor. A lighter take on classic meatloaf.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Bomb Meatloaf

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

Loaded with bold seasoning, cheese, or extra mix‑ins for maximum flavor impact. It bakes into a juicy, satisfying loaf. Each bite brings rich, hearty taste. Great with simple sides or gravy.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

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

Ground beef, cheese, and bacon come together for a mash‑up of two classics. Cheese melts inside while bacon adds smoky richness. The loaf stays moist and flavorful. Served with ketchup or burger sauce.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Lentils and veggies form a plant‑based meatloaf that’s hearty and flavorful. Breadcrumbs and seasonings bind it together without meat. It bakes into a moist, satisfying loaf. Great with vegan gravy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Vegan Meatloaf

Vegan Meatloaf. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

A fully plant‑based loaf with beans, grains, or veggies for texture. Bold herbs and seasoning keep every bite balanced. It’s a comforting alternative to traditional meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Meatloaf

Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

Sliced meatloaf with gravy on decorative plate, garnished with rosemary, accompanied by mashed potatoes.
Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Classic meatloaf topped with a rich, creamy onion gravy. The gravy soaks into each slice for extra moisture. Sweet onion notes complement savory beef. Ideal for serving over mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

Italian Meatloaf

Italian Meatloaf. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Italian herbs, garlic, and cheese bring bold Mediterranean flavor. Add marinara or pesto on top. The loaf stays moist with well‑rounded seasoning. Great with pasta or salad.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Two slices of meatloaf on a plate with mashed potatoes and carrots.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Inspired by the classic diner style, this loaf is hearty and full of simple, comforting flavor. A drizzle of brown sugar or tomato glaze finishes it nicely. It’s juicy, soft, and nostalgic. Works well with homestyle sides.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Stuffed Meatloaf

A plate with two slices of stuffed meatloaf topped with gravy, alongside mashed potatoes garnished with green herbs.
Stuffed Meatloaf. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

This loaf hides a center of cheese, spinach, peppers, or other filling. Each slice reveals a warm surprise inside. The seasoning stays rich and balanced. A fun twist that feels special at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Meatloaf

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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