Savory Sloppy Joe Meatloaf

Name: Savory Sloppy Joe Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp mustard

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love crafting comfort food that brings joy to the table, and this Savory Sloppy Joe Meatloaf never fails to impress. Combining the beloved flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with the hearty satisfaction of meatloaf, it’s an easy dish to prepare that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The sweet and tangy sauce beautifully complements the meaty loaf, creating a delightful balance. I find that adding Worcestershire sauce enhances the flavor richness, making each bite a true indulgence. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy a nostalgic favorite with a fun twist!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:34:27.549Z

Throughout my culinary adventures, I've learned that some dishes bring a sense of nostalgia, and this Savory Sloppy Joe Meatloaf is one of them. The process is straightforward: mixing ground beef with a medley of spices, onions, and, of course, a Sloppy Joe sauce that gives it a tasty twist. I always make sure to let it rest for a few minutes after baking, allowing the flavors to meld for that perfect bite.

What surprised me most was how well the loaf held its shape even with the sauce. I've experimented with different meats, but I find combining beef with a bit of pork creates a marvelous texture. It's a foolproof recipe that even the kids will love—perfect for family gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful mix of classic Sloppy Joe flavors and comforting meatloaf
Easy to prepare and packed with savory spices
Perfect for leftovers, great with a side of mashed potatoes

Ingredient Insights

The combination of ground beef and ground pork is key to achieving a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The beef provides depth and a hearty texture, while the pork adds a subtle sweetness and richness. If you prefer a leaner version, you can substitute the pork with an equal amount of lean turkey, but keep in mind that you may need to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Breadcrumbs play a crucial role in binding the meatloaf together, but they also contribute to its overall texture. If you want to make it gluten-free, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Just remember to adjust the amount of liquid, as these substitutes may absorb moisture differently.

Technique Tips

When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf. I typically use my hands to gently combine everything just until blended, ensuring a tender result. A good indicator for the right texture is a slightly tacky feel; this helps maintain moisture while baking.

Shaping the loaf can also impact cooking times. Aim for a loaf that’s about 2 inches high, as a loaf that’s too thick will take longer to cook, and the edges may get too dry. For even cooking, consider using a perforated loaf pan or placing a cooling rack in your baking dish to allow heat circulation.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your savory meatloaf with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn to enhance the comfort food experience. Alternatively, serve it atop a fresh green salad for a lighter spin that balances the rich flavors. You can also slice the meatloaf and use it as filling for hearty sandwiches, complemented with pickles and extra ketchup for that Sloppy Joe flair.

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding chopped jalapeños or diced green chilies to the meat mixture for a little heat. Another twist could involve using barbecue sauce instead of ketchup on top; this gives the meatloaf a smoky flavor that’s just as enjoyable. Adjusting toppings can bring new life to leftovers while keeping them exciting.

Ingredients for Savory Sloppy Joe Meatloaf

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 egg, beaten

Topping Ingredients

1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp mustard

Prepare to Indulge!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, green bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix until well incorporated.

Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding shredded cheese to the meat mixture or topping the meatloaf with crispy bacon for a smoky twist.

Storage and Reheating

This meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This method ensures it stays juicy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe foil or plastic wrap and then store it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as you would normally, or use a microwave for quicker results, though the oven method will yield better texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your meatloaf turns out too dry, it could be due to overbaking or using leaner cuts of meat without enough fat. To ensure juiciness, always check the internal temperature and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches 160°F (70°C), and consider adding a small amount of broth or a splash of olive oil to the mix for added moisture.

On the other hand, if your meatloaf falls apart during slicing, it might not have had enough binding agents like breadcrumbs or it may have been over-mixed. Be sure to handle it gently and test the mixture's consistency before shaping it into a loaf, adding more breadcrumbs if necessary to create a firmer texture.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with spices can add wonderful new dimensions to your meatloaf. For instance, adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can introduce a nice smoky heat. You may want to consider swapping out the garlic for shallots for a milder, sweeter taste, making the dish more complex.

If you’re a fan of cheese, fold in some shredded cheddar or crumbled feta into the meat mixture for a savory surprise. Creating a mozzarella center by encasing it within the meatloaf can also make for a delightful melted treat that adds an ooey-gooey element that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use only ground beef?

Yes, you can use only ground beef, but the mixture of beef and pork adds more flavor and moisture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf or the leftovers for up to 3 months.

→ What should I serve with this meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.