Meatloaf is a comfort food classic with more variety than you might expect. From smoky barbecue twists to cheesy stuffed versions, there’s something here for every kind of craving. These recipes take meatloaf far beyond the basic loaf pan, showing off new techniques, ingredients, and flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping ahead for the week, these ideas make meatloaf anything but boring.

Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Two mini meatloaves topped with sauce, one cut open to show the inside, served with a side of green vegetables—a perfect dinner for those seeking new meatloaf recipes.
Meatloaf Muffins Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This version bakes meatloaf in a muffin tin for quick, individual portions. It’s perfect for easy serving and faster cooking. Great for meal prep or packed lunches. Top with ketchup or glaze before baking for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Sliced meatloaf with a glossy tomato glaze is served on a white dish, making for a classic dinner alongside bowls of mashed potatoes and green beans—perfect for those seeking comforting meatloaf recipes.
Southern Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

A down-home take with traditional ingredients like onion, bell pepper, and a sweet tomato glaze. It’s hearty and flavorful with a soft, moist texture. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a full meal. A family favorite that sticks to its roots.
Get the Recipe: Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden cheese topping sits in a white dish, perfect for dinner; a serving spoon rests inside and one portion is removed. Parsley and a red cloth enhance the scene, inspiring cozy meatloaf recipes.
Meatloaf Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

All the flavors of meatloaf layered with mashed potatoes and cheese in a single dish. It’s baked until bubbly and golden on top. This one-pan meal is rich and comforting. Ideal for feeding a crowd or using up leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Casserole

Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

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

Lentils and vegetables come together in a firm loaf with lots of texture and flavor. Baked in the oven with a tomato-based glaze. Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. A satisfying alternative to traditional meat-based versions.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze

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

This meatloaf is cooked low and slow in a smoker, adding deep flavor. Finished with a tangy barbecue glaze for a sticky, savory crust. Slice and serve with classic BBQ sides. Great for weekends when you want something special.
Get the Recipe: Tasty BBQ Smoked Meatloaf with Glaze

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

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

Layers of meatloaf mix and creamy mashed potatoes topped with cheese and fried onions. It’s a hearty all-in-one dish with bold, rich flavor. Bake until hot and golden. This is serious comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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

A copycat of the popular restaurant version made with Ritz crackers, cheddar, and onions. Topped with a sweet tomato glaze. It’s tender, cheesy, and full of nostalgic flavor. Pair with classic southern sides for the full effect.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Bomb Meatloaf

Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This meatloaf is packed with seasoning and gets rave reviews for texture and taste. Often topped with a bold glaze or stuffed with cheese. It’s a go-to recipe for anyone who says they don’t like meatloaf. Slice thick and serve with bold sides.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Italian Meatloaf

Italian Meatloaf. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Ground meat is mixed with Italian herbs, parmesan, and marinara for a flavorful twist. Mozzarella can be stuffed inside or melted on top. Serve with pasta or roasted vegetables. It’s a comforting fusion of meatloaf and Italian flavors.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatloaf

Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf

Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

All the spices of taco night baked into a slow cooker meatloaf. Topped with salsa and cheese, then served with tortilla chips or rice. The slow cooking keeps it moist and flavorful. A fun and different take for taco lovers.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Taco 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 is combined with cheddar cheese, onions, and crumbled bacon. Tastes like a cheeseburger in loaf form. Bake with extra cheese on top for extra gooeyness. Serve with fries or a crisp salad.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

A lighter twist that cooks quickly and evenly in the air fryer. The outside gets nicely browned while staying juicy inside. Perfect for a smaller household or a quick dinner. Use your favorite glaze or seasoning mix.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

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

Ground chicken is blended with Italian seasonings, stuffed or topped with mozzarella, and baked with marinara sauce. It’s a cross between meatloaf and chicken parm. Serve with spaghetti or garlic bread. A tasty change from the usual.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Vegan Meatloaf

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

This plant-based loaf uses beans, grains, and veggies for a firm, sliceable result. A flavorful glaze adds a finishing touch. It holds together well and makes great leftovers. Serve with traditional sides or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Vegan 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.

A meatloaf with a surprise inside—often cheese, spinach, or vegetables. The filling adds flavor and texture in every slice. Use foil or parchment to help shape and roll it. Bake until golden and slice to reveal the layers.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed 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.

This version skips the glaze and goes with a rich onion gravy instead. The sauce is poured on top or served alongside for dipping. It’s savory, comforting, and pairs well with mashed potatoes. A great twist for those who prefer gravy to ketchup.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

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.

Made with low carb ingredients like almond flour or pork rinds and filled with melty cheese. Sautéed leeks add a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor. It’s a flavorful take that doesn’t rely on traditional binders. Serve with roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

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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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